Cold Wave Sweeps North India with Snowfall in Himachal and J&K IMD Alert Issued for Delhi
Cold wave conditions are gripping north India, impacting regions such as Delhi, Himachal Pradesh, and Jammu & Kashmir. The India Meteorological Department (IMD) issued alerts as temperatures dropped significantly across these areas.
Weather Alerts and Temperature Drops
The IMD’s cold and dense fog warnings took effect on Monday. Shopian in south Kashmir recorded a chilling temperature of 4.2 degrees Celsius, making it one of the coldest spots in the region. Srinagar experienced a temperature of minus 2.5 degrees Celsius during the night, while Shopian plunged to minus 4.2 degrees Celsius.
Forecast for Northern India
Cold wave conditions are predicted to persist in various parts of the country. Key forecasts include:
- Cold wave conditions are expected in Madhya Pradesh, Chhattisgarh, and Odisha from December 10 to 13.
- Punjab may experience similar conditions from December 11 to 13.
- Vidarbha and Telangana are likely to be affected on December 10 and 11.
- Haryana, Chandigarh, Delhi, and north Rajasthan are forecasted to face cold conditions on December 12 and 13.
Impact of Dense Fog
Dense fog is anticipated during early mornings in isolated parts of Assam and Manipur from December 10 to 14. Areas in eastern Uttar Pradesh and Odisha may also see fog on December 10 and 11. A gradual decrease of 2 degrees Celsius in minimum temperatures is expected over the plains of northwest India in the coming days.
Snowfall in Himachal Pradesh and Kashmir
Higher altitudes in central Kashmir experienced light snowfall, affecting the Srinagar-Leh national highway. The road has become slippery and hazardous for travel. Additionally, cold wave conditions expanded to tribal regions of Himachal Pradesh, where Rohtang Pass received snow, impacting transportation.
Travel Advisories
The Manali-Leh road has been closed for vehicles beyond Darcha, according to officials. This route traditionally closes each winter due to adverse conditions.
The IMD warns that these cold conditions may last for several days, with temperatures expected to rise slightly by 2 to 4 degrees Celsius later in the week.
