On Sunday, Delhi-NCR experienced dense fog, causing disruptions in travel schedules with over 100 flights and 22 trains facing delays due to poor visibility. The India Meteorological Department (IMD) reported a minimum temperature of 3.5 degrees Celsius in the national capital, which is four notches below the seasonal average. During the morning hours, Delhi was shrouded in thick fog, with Safdarjung recording zero visibility at 8 a.m., and Palam also experiencing zero visibility at 5 a.m.
The India Meteorological Department (IMD) categorizes fog intensity into four classifications: shallow, moderate, dense, and very dense fog. These categories are defined by varying visibility ranges, including 999 m to 500 m for shallow fog, 499 m to 200 m for moderate fog, 199 m to 50 m for dense fog, and less than 50 m for very dense fog.
As reported by Indian Railways, a significant disruption occurred in train schedules on account of fog and a cold wave, leading to delays for a total of 22 trains. The adverse weather conditions, characterized by dense fog and a cold wave, not only impacted rail travel but also severely affected road traffic. The reduced visibility to a few feet compelled vehicles to move at an exceptionally slow pace.
Adding to the challenges faced by the residents, several areas in Delhi grappled with ‘severe’ air quality conditions. The weather office responded to this concerning situation by issuing a red alert, signifying the heightened health risks associated with the prevailing cold and foggy weather conditions.
The India Meteorological Department (IMD) provided further insights, forecasting that the dense fog would persist in Delhi until Tuesday. This extended period of reduced visibility and chilly temperatures posed ongoing challenges for transportation and public health, emphasizing the need for caution and preparedness during this weather phenomenon. Commuters and residents were advised to stay updated on weather advisories and take necessary precautions to navigate through the persisting adverse conditions in the national capital region.
January 12th witnessed the onset of the first cold wave day in the city, with temperatures plummeting to 3.9 degrees Celsius. The chill persisted through Saturday, marking the coldest night of the season. Aya Nagar, situated at the terminus of the Mehrauli-Gurgaon Road in Delhi, recorded a season-low temperature of 3 degrees, reflecting the intensity of the winter weather.
According to the India Meteorological Department (IMD), Sunday’s forecast indicated that dense to very dense fog conditions are anticipated to prevail over North India for the next 4-5 days. This extended period of foggy weather poses challenges for visibility, impacting various modes of transportation and daily activities in the region. Commuters are advised to exercise caution, and authorities are on alert to manage the potential disruptions caused by the persistent foggy conditions.
As the cold wave tightens its grip on the region, residents are urged to take necessary precautions to stay warm and ensure their well-being. The IMD’s weather advisory serves as a crucial guide for residents, emphasizing the need to stay informed about the evolving weather conditions and to plan accordingly during this period of intense cold and reduced visibility.
The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has extended its forecast, predicting that cold wave to “severe” cold wave conditions is expected to persist in certain regions of Punjab, Haryana, Chandigarh, and Delhi until January 16.
As outlined in the daily bulletin, the IMD stated that ‘minimum temperatures’ are anticipated to hover in the range of 3-7 degrees Celsius across the majority of Punjab, Haryana, Chandigarh, Delhi, and Uttar Pradesh. Additionally, these temperatures are expected to be in the range of 8-10 degrees Celsius over many parts of south Rajasthan, Madhya Pradesh, Bihar, and Jharkhand.
This prolonged period of intense cold underscores the need for residents in these regions to take necessary precautions to combat the severe weather conditions. Authorities and relevant agencies are advised to remain vigilant and ensure preparedness measures are in place to address the potential challenges posed by the continuing cold wave. The IMD’s comprehensive weather outlook serves as a crucial guide for residents, allowing them to plan and adapt to the prevailing weather conditions until the forecasted date of January 16.
The India Meteorological Department (IMD) reported that temperatures are registering below normal by 1 to 4 degrees Celsius in many parts of Northwest and adjoining East India.
Additionally, the IMD anticipates the persistence of dense to very dense fog conditions during the night and morning hours in various regions. These areas include Punjab, Haryana, Chandigarh, Delhi, and Uttar Pradesh, and this foggy spell is expected to continue until January 16. Moreover, dense fog is predicted for some parts on the night of January 16 and the morning of January 17, followed by isolated pockets experiencing these conditions for the subsequent two days.
Residents in these regions are advised to stay informed about the weather forecasts, exercise caution during reduced visibility, and take necessary precautions to navigate the ongoing cold wave and foggy conditions. Authorities and transportation services are urged to remain vigilant and implement measures to mitigate potential disruptions caused by the persistent fog.
Also Read: Delhi Coldest Winter Morning at 3.8°C, Dense Fog Zero Visibility
