IMD Issues Dense Fog, Cold Day, and Rain Alarms for North India; Fresh Snowfall in Himachal

Dense fog, severe cold day conditions along with rain have been issued by the India Meteorological Department (IMD) as winter intensifies over northern India in the coming days. While the temperature plummets in the plains, the mountains in Himachal Pradesh turn into a beautiful canvas as fresh snow blankets the whole area, making it severely cold and a photographer’s delight.

Dense Fog and Cold Wave Grip North India

A thick fog layer has been seen across northern and northwestern India. The visibility has gone drastically low during late night and early morning hours. IMD has issued an orange alert for Rajasthan, Punjab, Haryana, Madhya Pradesh, and Uttar Pradesh, as there will be “dense to very dense fog” along with severe cold conditions.

“Recent satellite imagery has detected a widespread fog layer stretching from South Jammu to parts of Punjab, Haryana, Delhi, Rajasthan, and Uttar Pradesh,” the IMD noted in its bulletin. The biting cold is expected to persist, with isolated pockets in Rajasthan experiencing severe cold day conditions.

Tamil Nadu Faces Heavy Rainfall

While the north grapples with freezing temperatures, Tamil Nadu in the south is grappling with an entirely different kind of weather system. Heavy rainfall has been disrupting normal life in several districts here. The IMD has thus highlighted the contrasting weather patterns between the two ends of the country, underlining the diversity of India’s climate.

Himalayas Witness Fresh Snowfall

Fresh snowfall over the Dhauladhar range has turned the region in the picturesque mountains of Himachal Pradesh into a winter wonderland. The temperatures over the weekend plummeted to as low as 0°C, while the icy winds further intensified the chill.

Just a few days back, heavy rainwater soaked the region, and today the hills are all snowed up. The chill has become unbearable and every one of them has had to wear layers after layers. The morning and evenings are the worst times for anyone to venture out in the open,” said one local resident.

It makes tourists feel excited when snowfall takes place in hill stations such as Dharamshala, Shimla, and Manali, while for the locals, it poses problems in carrying out daily activities.

Rain and Snowfall Expected in the Coming Days

The IMD has also forecast rain and snowfall over the Western Himalayan region from January 1 to January 5 in response to an approaching western disturbance. The same is expected to strengthen the cold wave gripping the northern states, with additional snowfall likely to increase in Himachal, Uttarakhand, and Jammu & Kashmir.

The IMD cautions travelers and residents:

• Avoid unnecessary travel during dense fog conditions to prevent accidents.
• Wear adequate warm clothing to protect against the severe cold.
• Farmers are urged to take steps to safeguard their crops against frost damage.

The Big Picture: Winter’s Dual Impact

While the north bristles for dense fog and freezing temperatures, Tamil Nadu’s heavy rains remind us of the various challenges India’s winter weather poses. Be it icy winds blowing over Delhi or snow-clad peaks in Himachal, this season vividly portrays the contrasts- both beautiful and formidable.

As the new year comes in, the weather asks for vigilance, preparedness, and a little appreciation for the breathtaking beauty it brings, even with all its challenges.

FAQs on IMD Weather Alerts and Current Conditions

1. What is the IMD’s weather forecast for North India?

The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has predicted dense to very dense fog, cold day conditions, and rain across northern India. An orange alert has been issued for Rajasthan, Punjab, Haryana, Madhya Pradesh, and Uttar Pradesh. These conditions are expected to persist for the next 2-3 days.

2. What are “cold day conditions”?

Cold day conditions are declared when the daytime temperatures are significantly lower than normal, even if the minimum (nighttime) temperatures are not exceptionally cold. This occurs due to persistent fog or cloudy skies that prevent sunlight from warming the region.

3. Which areas are experiencing dense fog?

Dense to very dense fog is being observed in parts of Haryana, Punjab, Chandigarh, Delhi, Rajasthan, Madhya Pradesh, Uttar Pradesh, and neighboring regions. Visibility during late-night and early-morning hours is severely impacted.

4. What is the weather forecast for Himachal Pradesh?

Himachal Pradesh has received fresh snowfall over the Dhauladhar range and other mountainous regions. Temperatures in the state have dropped to as low as 0°C. More snowfall is expected between January 1 and January 5 due to a western disturbance.

5. How is Tamil Nadu’s weather different from North India?

While northern India is facing extreme cold and foggy conditions, Tamil Nadu is experiencing heavy rainfall due to a separate weather system. The rain has disrupted normal life in several districts of the state.

6. What precautions should I take during dense fog and cold weather?

• While driving: Use fog lights and drive cautiously at reduced speeds.
• For health: Wear layered, warm clothing, especially during mornings and evenings.
• For farmers: Protect crops from frost by using suitable covers or irrigation methods.
• For general safety: Avoid unnecessary travel during dense fog conditions.

7. Will there be more snow and rain in the coming days?

Yes, the IMD has predicted additional snowfall and rainfall in the Western Himalayan region, including Himachal Pradesh, Uttarakhand, and Jammu & Kashmir, between January 1 and January 5 due to a western disturbance.

8. What is an orange alert, and why has it been issued?

An orange alert is a weather warning indicating a moderate to high likelihood of adverse conditions. It has been issued for parts of Rajasthan, Punjab, Haryana, Madhya Pradesh, and Uttar Pradesh due to dense fog, cold day conditions, and the potential for accidents and health issues.

9. How can I stay updated on weather alerts?

You can follow the India Meteorological Department’s official updates on their website or social media platforms like X (formerly Twitter). Regular news bulletins and local radio stations also provide timely information.

10. Is this weather normal for this time of year?

Yes, cold waves, dense fog, and snowfall in the northern parts of India are typical during winter. However, heavy rainfall in Tamil Nadu at this time of year is influenced by specific weather systems such as cyclonic circulations or easterly waves.