Large parts of North India remain in the grip of intense cold, with snowfall in the hills and dense fog affecting the plains. According to the India Meteorological Department, there is little chance of relief from the biting cold over the next 48 hours.
From Jammu and Kashmir to Himachal Pradesh, fresh snowfall has been reported, while states such as Uttar Pradesh, Rajasthan, Punjab, and Haryana are facing persistent fog and low temperatures. In Delhi-NCR, residents are struggling with a combination of cold weather and rising pollution levels.
Snowfall in the Hills, Fog in the Plains
In Jammu and Kashmir, the season’s harshest winter phase known as Chillai Kalan has begun. Gulmarg received around two inches of fresh snow and recorded sub-zero temperatures, dropping to minus 1.5 degrees Celsius. Sonamarg also witnessed continuous snowfall through the day.
Despite the cold spell, Srinagar recorded a night temperature of 4 degrees Celsius, which was six degrees above normal and marked the warmest night of the season so far. However, bad weather conditions led to the cancellation of at least 11 flights at Srinagar International Airport.
IMD Forecast: Cold to Persist
The weather department has predicted snowfall, rain, and dense fog across large parts of North India over the next 24 to 48 hours. This means the cold conditions are expected to continue without much relief.
In Himachal Pradesh, snowfall was reported in higher-altitude areas of Lahaul-Spiti and Chamba. Snow also fell at Shinku La, Rohtang Pass, parts of the Pangi Valley, and near the Atal Tunnel. Meanwhile, mid and lower hill regions remained cloudy, resulting in dry conditions. The state has recorded a complete rainfall deficit for the month so far.
The IMD has also issued a moderate to severe avalanche warning for some areas of Kinnaur and Lahaul-Spiti districts.
Extreme Cold in Punjab, Haryana, and Uttar Pradesh
Cold conditions have intensified across the plains as well. Dense fog covered many areas in Punjab, Haryana, and Uttar Pradesh, significantly reducing visibility. Narnaul in Haryana emerged as the coldest place in the state with a minimum temperature of 5.2 degrees Celsius, while Gurdaspur was the coldest in Punjab at 6.8 degrees Celsius.
In parts of Uttar Pradesh, visibility dropped below 50 meters due to very dense fog. Several regions experienced “cold day” to “severe cold day” conditions, disrupting daily life and transportation.
Also Read: Winter Cricket in North India Under Review After Fog Forces Lucknow T20I Washout
Delhi and Uttarakhand Remain Cold
Delhi recorded a minimum temperature of 9.4 degrees Celsius, slightly above normal, just a day after the city experienced its coldest December day. Similar cold conditions were reported from parts of Uttarakhand.
The weather department has advised people to remain cautious, especially the elderly and children, as the cold wave shows no immediate signs of easing. Residents are urged to take necessary precautions to protect themselves from the ongoing severe winter conditions.
