Bone-chilling cold grips Punjab and Chandigarh as dense fog and cold wave conditions continue till Lohri.
Punjab Weather Update: Bone-Chilling Cold Grips Punjab and Chandigarh; Dense Fog and Cold Wave Likely Till Lohri
Punjab and Chandigarh are currently in the grip of severe winter conditions, with bone-chilling cold, dense fog, and an ongoing cold wave making daily life difficult. According to the India Meteorological Department (IMD), residents will continue to face dense fog and cold wave conditions at least till Lohri, increasing concerns over road safety, health, and routine activities.
Yellow Alert Issued for January 9
The IMD has issued a Yellow Alert for January 9, warning people about dense fog during early morning and late-night hours, along with the likelihood of a cold wave across several districts of Punjab and the Union Territory of Chandigarh. Visibility in many areas is expected to drop significantly, especially on highways and open roads, which may disrupt traffic and transport services.
Temperature Remains Much Below Normal
Over the last 24 hours, Punjab witnessed a slight rise of 0.1°C in the maximum temperature, offering almost no relief from the cold. Despite this marginal increase, the maximum temperature still remains around 5.5°C below normal, highlighting the intensity of the current cold spell. Minimum temperatures in many districts have dipped close to freezing levels, intensifying the chill during night and early morning hours.
Dense Fog Till Lohri
Meteorological experts have indicated that dense fog conditions are likely to persist till Lohri, particularly in central and northern parts of Punjab. Areas such as Ludhiana, Amritsar, Jalandhar, Patiala, Bathinda, and surrounding regions may experience low visibility ranging from 50 to 200 meters during peak fog hours. Chandigarh is also expected to witness similar conditions, especially during morning commutes.
This persistent fog can lead to flight delays, train schedule disruptions, and slower vehicular movement. Authorities have advised drivers to use fog lights, maintain safe distances, and avoid unnecessary travel during low-visibility periods.
Cold Wave Impact on Daily Life
The ongoing cold wave has significantly affected daily routines. Morning walkers, farmers, laborers, and school-going children are among the most impacted. In rural areas, farmers are closely monitoring their crops, especially vegetables and wheat, as prolonged cold and fog can influence crop growth.
Health experts are also urging people, particularly the elderly and children, to take extra precautions. Prolonged exposure to cold can lead to respiratory problems, joint pain, and seasonal illnesses such as cough, cold, and flu.
Advisory for the Public
The IMD and local administration have issued advisories urging people to:
- Avoid early morning travel unless necessary
- Wear warm clothing in layers
- Keep children and elderly indoors during extreme cold
- Drive carefully with headlights and fog lights on
- Stay updated with weather forecasts and alerts
Weather Outlook for the Coming Days
According to weather officials, no significant western disturbance is expected immediately, which means cold and fog conditions may continue. However, a slight improvement in daytime temperatures is possible after Lohri, depending on wind patterns and sunshine duration.
Conclusion
Punjab and Chandigarh are set to experience harsh winter conditions for a few more days, with dense fog and cold wave persisting till Lohri. While temperatures may show minor fluctuations, overall conditions will remain cold and challenging. Residents are advised to stay alert, follow safety guidelines, and take necessary health precautions during this intense winter phase.
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