A strong cold wave has swept across large parts of North India, triggering a sharp fall in temperatures and prompting weather advisories in several states. Cities such as Delhi, Chandigarh, Lucknow, and Jaipur recorded significantly below-normal temperatures, with dense fog disrupting early-morning visibility and affecting road, rail, and air travel. The India Meteorological Department (IMD) attributes the ongoing cold wave to chilly northwesterly winds and clear night skies, conditions that allow rapid heat loss after sunset.
In the Himalayan regions of Himachal Pradesh and Uttarakhand, temperatures dropped to near-freezing levels, with some high-altitude areas experiencing fresh snowfall. Authorities advised residents to limit early morning travel and take precautions against cold-related illnesses, especially vulnerable groups such as children and the elderly.
While the northern belt faces severe cold, southern states are preparing for a contrasting weather pattern. Tamil Nadu, Kerala, Karnataka, and parts of Andhra Pradesh have been placed on alert for moderate to heavy rainfall over the coming days. The IMD reports that a developing weather system over the Bay of Bengal is likely to bring widespread showers and thunderstorms, raising concerns about localized flooding in low-lying coastal districts.
Farmers in the region have been advised to safeguard crops and avoid waterlogging in agricultural fields. Disaster management teams in Tamil Nadu and Kerala are also monitoring potential risks as the rain system intensifies.
The contrasting weather conditions highlight India’s diverse climate patterns, with the north battling intense cold even as the south braces for significant rainfall in the days ahead.
