North India is experiencing an intense cold wave that has marking the coldest nights of the season so far, with temperatures plummeting to 0.6°C in several plains cities. The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued weather alerts for the next 48 hours, warning of continued severe cold, dense fog, and frost across states such as Haryana, Punjab, Rajasthan, Delhi and Uttar Pradesh. Residents are urged to take safety precautions, especially during early morning and late night hours. This unusual plunge in temperatures has major implications for health, daily life, travel, agriculture, and road safety across the region.
North India’s Historic Cold Wave: What’s Happening?
Over the past week, large parts of North India have been engulfed by one of the most severe cold spells in decades. Cities like Gurugram and Bathinda recorded temperatures as low as 0.6°C, marking some of the lowest minimum readings of this winter season.
Meanwhile, dense fog has significantly reduced visibility in many areas, leading to caution advisories, travel delays, and increased risks on highways and rural roads.
Weather Alerts from IMD
The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued cold wave and dense fog alerts covering Punjab, Haryana, Rajasthan, Delhi, Uttar Pradesh and other parts of northern India for the next 48 hours.
These alerts warn of:
- Continued cold wave conditions during nights and early mornings.
- Dense to very dense fog in plains affecting road and air travel.
- Frost conditions in many areas.
- Possible patchy rain or snowfall in higher Himalayan regions.
In Delhi, cold conditions are expected to persist, with temperatures remaining well below seasonal norms.
Regions Most Affected
Haryana & Punjab
Both states experienced one of the coldest nights of the season, with Gurugram and Bathinda recording temperatures near freezing (0.6°C). Dense fog continues to disrupt visibility across villages and highways.
Rajasthan
Cities such as in the Shekhawati region saw extreme cold, with reports of temperatures dropping below zero in Fatehpur. Thick fog and frost have made travel difficult.
Delhi & NCR
The capital region is shivering with severe cold alerts. IMD forecasts that the intense chilly conditions will continue over the next 48 hours with minimum temperatures dipping further.
Uttar Pradesh
Cold conditions have been recorded across most districts, with dense fog affecting visibility. Communities are advised to monitor local forecasts closely.
Why Is This Cold Wave So Severe?
Meteorologists explain that a combination of western disturbances and clear night skies has strengthened radiational cooling—leading to rapid temperature drops across the plains. Cold winds originating from the Himalayas intensify this effect. Dense fog forms when cold air traps moisture near the surface, worsening visibility, and retaining cold conditions.
Cold waves historically occur during these months, but the severity and early onset this year have been unusually strong, raising concern among weather experts.
Effect on Daily Life & Travel
The ongoing cold wave has brought several challenges:
1. Road & Air Travel
Dense fog has reduced visibility on highways and near airports, causing delays and heightening accident risks. Commuters are urged to avoid non-essential travel during peak fog.
2. Agriculture & Crops
Frost and sub-zero nights can damage winter crops such as mustard and potatoes in northern states. Farmers are advised to monitor frost alerts and take protective actions.
3. Health Risks
Elderly people, children, and those with respiratory issues are at higher risk during extended cold spells.
4. Energy & Utilities
Demand for heating and electricity spikes, sometimes stressing local utility systems.
IMD’s Advice: Safety First
The IMD and local authorities recommend:
- Wearing warm layers and winter clothing.
- Using heaters or warm bedding at night.
- Limiting outdoor activity during early morning hours.
- Being cautious while driving through fog — use fog lights and reduce speed.
- Ensuring livestock and poultry are sheltered in cold weather.
These practical steps can make a real difference in comfort and safety during the cold wave.
Sant Rampal Ji Maharaj’s Teachings on Inner Strength During Extreme Cold
The ongoing cold wave reminds us of the transitory nature of worldly conditions.
According to teachings of Sant Rampal Ji Maharaj, external climates and internal states both reflect impermanence—nothing in physical life remains constant. When nature brings extremes, it tests human endurance and compassion.
Sant Rampal Ji Maharaj emphasizes that true peace comes from inner spiritual warmth—through devotion—which remains unaffected by external cold or heat. He teaches that internal harmony provides strength to face worldly hardships without fear or anxiety. In times of severe weather or distress, seeking higher spiritual wisdom deepens resilience and promotes care for others, especially the elderly and vulnerable.
This perspective encourages collective empathy—caring for neighbors, helping those in need, and grounding ourselves in spiritual practice to cultivate warmth within, regardless of external chill.
FAQs: Cold Wave Breaks
1. What is a cold wave and how does it affect North India?
A cold wave is a significant drop in temperature below normal, often with strong winds and frost. It affects daily life, agriculture, health, and transport in affected regions.
2. Has North India broken temperature records this winter?
Yes. Cities like Gurugram and Bathinda recorded around 0.6°C, among the lowest this season, indicating a strong cold wave.
3. What areas have IMD warnings issued?
IMD has issued alerts for cold wave conditions and dense fog across Punjab, Haryana, Rajasthan, Delhi, UP and nearby states for the next 48 hours.
4. How can I protect myself during a severe cold wave?
Wear warm clothing, limit outdoor exposure, use heaters safely, stay hydrated, and follow local weather updates.
5. Why is the fog so dense during this cold wave?
Cold, calm conditions trap moisture near ground level causing fog. These conditions often accompany strong cold waves, reducing visibility and making travel risky.
