Relief from Severe Cold Still Far Off, IMD Issues Key Forecast

New Delhi: Most parts of North India, including Delhi-NCR, are currently grappling with severe cold, with the Indian Meteorological Department (IMD) warning that relief is unlikely in the next 48 hours.

Snow in Hills, Dense Fog in Plains

Hilly regions like Jammu & Kashmir and Himachal Pradesh are witnessing heavy snowfall, while plains in Uttar Pradesh, Rajasthan, Punjab, and Haryana are shrouded in dense fog. The IMD predicts that snow, rain, and fog will continue across major parts of the region over the next 24–48 hours.

In Jammu & Kashmir, the ‘Chillai-Kalan’ period, a 40-day phase of extreme cold, has begun. Gulmarg recorded about two inches of snow, with temperatures dropping to minus 1.5°C—the lowest in the valley. Sonamarg experienced continuous snowfall from morning till afternoon. Despite this, Srinagar reported a relatively warmer night at 4°C, six degrees above normal. Poor weather led to at least 11 flight cancellations at Srinagar International Airport.

Himachal Pradesh Faces Harsh Cold

In Himachal, high-altitude regions of Lahaul-Spiti and Chamba witnessed snow, including Shinku La, Rohtang Pass, and Pangi Valley. The area near the Atal Tunnel also recorded snowfall. Despite light snow, tourists continue to visit Shinku La, now being promoted as a new snow tourism destination. Meanwhile, central and lower hills remain mostly dry due to dense clouds, causing 100% deficit rainfall in Himachal so far this month. The IMD has issued warnings for moderate to severe avalanches in parts of Kinnaur and Lahaul-Spiti.

Plains Endure Extreme Cold

In the plains, states like Punjab, Haryana, and Uttar Pradesh are experiencing intense cold, with dense fog reducing visibility in some areas to less than 50 meters. Narnaul in Haryana recorded the lowest temperature at 5.2°C, while Gurdaspur in Punjab reported 6.8°C. Several locations reported cold days to severe cold days, impacting daily life.

No Immediate Relief

Even in parts of Uttarakhand, the cold persists. Delhi recorded a minimum temperature of 9.4°C, slightly above normal, following the coldest day of December the previous day. The IMD has advised residents to take precautions, especially elderly people and children, as relief from the cold wave is not expected soon.

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