North India is experiencing an intense cold wave, with temperatures plummeting across states and disrupting daily life. Delhi recorded a minimum temperature of 7 degrees Celsius on Tuesday, accompanied by a thin fog that blanketed parts of the city, creating a chilling atmosphere. On Monday, the capital had reported a minimum of 8 degrees Celsius and a maximum of 20 degrees Celsius. The cold prompted residents to gather around bonfires and seek refuge in night shelters to escape the biting chill.
In Rajasthan, cold weather conditions also disrupted daily activities. The Indian Meteorological Department reported a minimum temperature of 9 degrees Celsius in Bikaner, reflecting the persistent cold gripping the state. Across the region, temperatures remained significantly low, with fog and reduced visibility adding to the challenges faced by residents.
Jammu and Kashmir, among the worst-hit areas, witnessed sub-zero temperatures in several locations. Srinagar recorded a minimum temperature of -5.2 degrees Celsius on Tuesday morning, while the picturesque regions of Gulmarg, Pahalgam, Banihal, and Kupwara reported temperatures of -0.6, -6.8, -0.8, and -4.6 degrees Celsius, respectively. On Monday, Srinagar experienced an even harsher chill, with the minimum temperature plunging to -7 degrees Celsius, while the maximum temperature reached just 7 degrees Celsius. The Indian Meteorological Department has issued warnings of a severe cold wave in Jammu and Kashmir starting December 24.
The cold wave conditions are expected to intensify across northern states, including Rajasthan, Punjab, Haryana, and Uttar Pradesh, between December 23 and 25. According to the Indian Meteorological Department, a cold wave is declared when the minimum temperature in plains drops to 10 degrees Celsius or below, and in hilly regions to 0 degrees Celsius or lower.
Adding to the region’s struggles, Delhi’s air quality entered the ‘severe’ category on Tuesday. The Central Pollution Control Board reported an Air Quality Index of 401 at 8 AM, a slight improvement from Monday’s 403. Alarming AQI levels were recorded in areas like Alipur (417), Anand Vihar (423), RK Puram (425), and ITO (402), with fog further reducing visibility. According to CPCB standards, AQI levels above 400 are classified as hazardous, posing significant health risks. The combination of freezing temperatures and poor air quality has heightened challenges for residents, particularly those with respiratory conditions.
