Over the past few weeks, North India has found itself in the icy grip of an intense and bone-chilling cold spell, exacerbated by plummeting temperatures and persistent thick fog that shows no signs of abating. The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has responded to the severity of the situation by issuing a ‘Cold Day Alert’ for various parts of Delhi.
The persistent weather conditions are expected to continue on Tuesday, with the possibility of light rains on Wednesday and Thursday, which could further contribute to a drop in daytime temperatures. The harsh weather has significantly disrupted transportation, leading to delays in both rail and flight operations. Road travel is also being deemed unsafe, particularly during the mornings and nights, due to the poor visibility caused by the dense fog.
Delhi is expected to experience light rain on both January 31 and February 1 due to the approach of a second western disturbance to the plains, according to the IMD. The formation of a wet spell over the Western Himalayan Region from January 29 to February 3 is anticipated, resulting in rainfall across various northern regions, particularly on January 30 and 31.
Regions including Jammu, Kashmir, Ladakh, Gilgit, Baltistan, Muzaffarabad, and Himachal Pradesh are expected to experience moderate rainfall or snowfall until February 3. Specifically, heavy rainfall or snowfall is predicted for Kashmir on January 30 and 31, and similar weather conditions are forecasted for Himachal Pradesh on January 31.
Tourists enjoy snow at a ski resort after the fresh snowfall received in Gulmarg on Monday. As the 40-day harshest winter period of Chilai Kalan in Kashmir ended on Monday with scant snowfall or rain, the agricultural and horticulture experts warn of its adverse effects in coming months if there is no major snowfall in early February.
Furthermore, from January 31 to February 2, there is a likelihood of light to moderate rainfall in Uttarakhand, Punjab, Chandigarh, Haryana, and western Uttar Pradesh. The forecast suggests that these weather conditions are attributed to the influence of the approaching western disturbance, bringing precipitation to the mentioned areas during the specified time frame.
The adverse conditions are causing widespread inconvenience and pose challenges for daily commuting and travel plans. The harsh winter has not only disrupted normal life but has also impacted transportation systems, with rail and air travel experiencing significant delays.
The IMD’s ‘Cold Day Alert’ highlights the severity of the ongoing cold wave, urging residents to take precautions and stay updated on weather forecasts. The unpredictable nature of the weather has created challenges for both authorities and the public, requiring proactive measures to mitigate the impact on daily life.
As North India battles the harsh winter conditions, it becomes essential for individuals to stay informed about the latest weather updates, follow safety guidelines, and plan their activities accordingly. The IMD’s forecasts and alerts play a crucial role in helping communities navigate through these challenging weather conditions and ensure the well-being of the residents.
