The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has forecast a significant drop in temperatures across northwest and central India over the next few days, including the national capital, Delhi. In an official release, the IMD warned of cold wave conditions and dense fog in several regions, urging residents to brace for chilly days ahead.
According to the weather agency, cold wave conditions are expected in isolated pockets of Punjab, Haryana, and Chandigarh from December 31 to January 2. Rajasthan, too, will experience similar conditions starting December 30. Additionally, cold day conditions are anticipated in Himachal Pradesh and Rajasthan on December 29, and in Punjab and Haryana-Chandigarh on December 30.
The IMD has also issued a dense fog warning for multiple states, which could significantly affect visibility and disrupt travel. Over the next two days, Punjab and Haryana are expected to experience dense to very dense fog during late-night and early-morning hours. Dense fog will also cover parts of Rajasthan from December 30 to 31, and persist in Himachal Pradesh until January 1. Northeastern states like Assam and Meghalaya are forecasted to see similar conditions until January 2.
Dr. Naresh Kumar, a scientist at IMD, said temperatures across northwest and central India are likely to fall by 3 to 5 degrees Celsius in the coming days. “We are expecting cold conditions, particularly in Himachal Pradesh, Punjab, and Haryana regions,” he stated, adding that while Delhi may remain chilly, no cold wave is expected in the city for now.
In Delhi, the minimum temperature dropped to 12 degrees Celsius on Sunday, shrouding the city in a thin layer of fog. With the mercury dipping, many homeless residents are taking refuge in night shelters set up by the Delhi Urban Shelter Improvement Board (DUSIB), which has installed 235 pagoda tents across the city.
The IMD’s forecast follows a period of above-normal temperatures for this time of year, but weather experts suggest the cold will intensify soon. Residents in affected areas are advised to stay updated on weather conditions and take necessary precautions, especially while traveling during foggy mornings.
