New Delhi, January 2, 2025
Delhi is experiencing its third consecutive day of intense cold conditions, with temperatures continuing to drop below the usual winter average. The ongoing cold wave has brought chilly winds and low visibility due to fog, making it a tough situation for residents, especially in the early morning and late evening hours.
According to the India Meteorological Department (IMD), the city recorded a temperature of 4°C this morning, marking a significant dip from the previous days. This prolonged cold spell is being attributed to a combination of clear skies, strong northerly winds, and the continuation of a winter chill that has gripped much of North India.
The dense fog in the mornings has caused a considerable dip in visibility, affecting road traffic and flights, particularly during early hours. The IMD has issued an advisory urging commuters to exercise caution while driving and avoid travel during times of low visibility. Additionally, there have been reports of delays in air travel as visibility at the Delhi airport remained poor for several hours.
As the cold weather persists, the city’s hospitals have seen an increase in cases of cold-related illnesses such as hypothermia and respiratory infections. Authorities have urged the elderly and children, who are most vulnerable, to stay indoors whenever possible and take appropriate precautions to stay warm.
Delhi’s residents are also struggling with the impact on daily life, with many opting to stay indoors during the peak cold hours. The situation has led to a surge in demand for warm clothing, with local markets reporting higher sales of woolens and heaters.
The cold wave has been affecting other parts of North India as well, with several states such as Haryana, Punjab, and Uttar Pradesh also reporting a sharp drop in temperatures.
Weather experts suggest that this cold spell may continue for the next few days, with the city’s temperatures expected to remain in the range of 4°C to 6°C. While Delhi’s winter is usually characterized by chilly mornings and evenings, this prolonged period of low temperatures is causing significant discomfort for residents.
Authorities are closely monitoring the situation, especially for vulnerable populations, and have issued health advisories to prevent cold-related ailments. The IMD has also forecasted that temperatures may rise slightly over the next few days as the cold wave starts to retreat, though the chilly mornings are likely to persist.
