Thick fog blankets Delhi; IMD warns of harsh cold in North India

Delhiites woke up to a blanket of dense fog on Saturday morning, creating visibility issues across the city. According to the India Meteorological Department (IMD), Safdarjung recorded a minimum temperature of 7.6°C at 8:30 AM, while Palam registered 8.7°C. The maximum temperature for the day is forecast at 23°C.

A Delhi resident remarked, "It is our routine to go for cycling. We are not troubled by winters or summers. We have a whole group that is in different parts of Delhi."

Air Quality in the ‘Severe’ Range

The overall Air Quality Index (AQI) in Delhi was recorded at 398 on December 21, as per the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB), nearing the 'severe' category.

• Anand Vihar: AQI at 414
• Dwarka Sector 8: AQI at 413
• Rohini: AQI at 425
• Lodhi Road: AQI at 362
• Delhi University’s North Campus: AQI at 376

An AQI between 401 and 500 is classified as 'severe,' posing health risks to the entire population, particularly those with pre-existing conditions.

Republic Day Preparations Amid Weather Challenges

Despite the severe weather, rehearsals for the Republic Day parade were underway at Kartavya Path. Visuals from locations like Akshardham showed thick fog engulfing the area, adding to the city's winter landscape.

Cold Wave Warning Across North India

The IMD has issued an orange alert for severe cold wave conditions in Himachal Pradesh from December 20 to 24. Cold wave conditions are also expected in Jammu, Punjab, Kutch, and Saurashtra, where a yellow alert is in place until December 21.

The IMD’s advisory highlights the persistence of cold wave conditions across Jammu-Kashmir, Himachal Pradesh, Ladakh, and parts of Rajasthan and Punjab. "Severe cold wave conditions are expected in parts of Himachal Pradesh from December 20 to 24," stated the IMD.

The Chillai Kalan period in Kashmir marks the harshest winter days. Temperatures have already dropped significantly, with Srinagar recording its coldest night of the season. Similarly, states in Northwest India, including Punjab, Rajasthan, and Haryana, are experiencing below-average temperatures.

Dense fog and ground frost have compounded challenges in several states. Punjab, Assam, and Meghalaya are expected to witness dense fog until December 25. Meanwhile, ground frost is forecast in isolated areas of Himachal Pradesh, Uttarakhand, and Arunachal Pradesh through December 24.

Snowfall and Rain Predictions

The IMD forecasts light snowfall in Himachal Pradesh, Jammu-Kashmir, Gilgit-Baltistan, and Ladakh between December 22 and 24. Snowfall is also expected on higher reaches from the night of December 27 to the morning of December 28. Rainfall or light snow may occur in isolated areas during this period.

Air Quality: A Persistent Concern

Delhi's air quality continues to hover between 'very poor' and 'severe,' with several areas crossing the 400 mark. Anand Vihar and Rohini remain hotspots for critical AQI levels. Authorities have urged residents to minimise outdoor activities, especially for vulnerable groups, including children and the elderly.

As Delhi grapples with dense fog, severe cold waves, and hazardous air quality, the IMD’s forecasts indicate no immediate respite. Residents are advised to take necessary precautions and limit exposure to outdoor air. With Republic Day rehearsals underway and North India bracing for extended cold waves, weather-related challenges are likely to persist in the coming weeks.