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The Indian Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued a cold wave alert for several states in northern India, warning of potentially severe conditions until December 23rd. The alert specifically targets Himachal Pradesh and West Rajasthan, with isolated areas of West Rajasthan predicted to experience cold to severe cold wave conditions on December 20th and 21st. Himachal Pradesh faces a more extended period of cold to severe cold wave conditions, from December 19th to 23rd, with a potential resurgence on December 24th and 25th. This widespread cold snap highlights the significant impact of winter weather patterns on the region's population and infrastructure.
The impact of the cold wave extends beyond Himachal Pradesh and West Rajasthan. Delhi, the national capital, experienced a sharp drop in minimum temperature, reaching 7 degrees Celsius on Friday. This drop in temperature was compounded by a dense fog, further reducing visibility and impacting daily life. The city's air quality suffered as well, with the Air Quality Index (AQI) remaining in the 'severe' category, reaching 434 at 8 AM according to the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB). This severe AQI highlights the interconnectedness of weather patterns and air quality, a significant concern for public health in densely populated urban areas.
Other states are also feeling the effects of the cold wave. Uttar Pradesh, particularly the Sambhal area, experienced a dense fog along with a drop in temperatures. The Met department predicts maximum and minimum temperatures to hover around 26 degrees Celsius and 10 degrees Celsius, respectively. Parts of Punjab are also under a cold wave warning for December 20th, with isolated pockets potentially affected on December 21st and 22nd. Jammu and Kashmir, Ladakh, Gilgit-Baltistan, and Muzaffarabad are expected to experience cold wave conditions from December 19th to 25th. Haryana and Chandigarh will also face cold wave impacts from December 19th to 21st. The combination of cold temperatures, fog, and poor air quality creates hazardous conditions for vulnerable populations.
The IMD's forecast extends to predictions of snowfall in certain areas. In Jammu and Kashmir, the Met department anticipates mainly dry weather until December 26th, with light snowfall anticipated in higher reaches on the night of December 21st-22nd and again from the night of December 27th to the morning of December 28th. Currently, no snowfall is predicted for Himachal Pradesh, with dry weather prevailing. However, the IMD notes that an active western disturbance is anticipated around December 27th and 28th, potentially bringing wintry conditions including snowfall in higher-altitude areas and light to moderate rain in lower and mid-hill regions. This highlights the dynamic nature of weather patterns and the challenges in predicting the exact impact of such disturbances.
Shobhit Katiyar, Senior Scientist at IMD Himachal Pradesh, provided further insight into the anticipated changes. He stated that the projected active western disturbance on December 27th and 28th could lead to snowfall in higher-altitude areas and light to moderate rain in lower and mid-hill regions of Himachal Pradesh. The IMD continues to closely monitor the situation, with updated forecasts expected as the dates approach. This underscores the importance of continuous monitoring and accurate forecasting in mitigating the potential risks associated with severe weather events. The accuracy of these forecasts is crucial for public safety, emergency response planning, and the overall well-being of affected communities.
The current cold wave highlights the vulnerability of northern India to extreme weather conditions. The combination of cold temperatures, dense fog, and poor air quality poses significant challenges for public health and infrastructure. The IMD’s alerts serve as a crucial tool in preparing for and mitigating the impact of these events. Further, the prediction of future snowfall and rain based on an active western disturbance emphasizes the importance of long-term weather monitoring and planning for the region. By understanding the complexities of weather patterns and preparing for potential extreme weather events, the affected communities can better safeguard their well-being and minimize disruptions to their daily lives. The collaboration between meteorological agencies and local authorities is essential in ensuring effective communication and response to these challenges.
Source: IMD issues cold wave alert for these states till December 23 in northern India