New Delhi, India – December 18 – A biting cold wave has enveloped northern India, with Delhi experiencing its coldest spell in recent years. The mercury plummeted to a bone-chilling 5 degrees Celsius, sending residents scrambling for warm clothes and heaters.
The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has attributed the frigid conditions to a western disturbance, which has brought dense fog and chilly winds to the region. Neighboring states of Haryana, Punjab, Uttar Pradesh, and Rajasthan are also grappling with sub-zero temperatures.
Uttar Pradesh and Bihar have been particularly hard hit, with several districts reporting frost and icy conditions. The unexpected cold snap has disrupted normal life, as schools have been closed in many areas and farmers are struggling to protect their crops.
Hill Stations Rejoice While the plains are shivering, the hill stations of Jammu and Kashmir and Himachal Pradesh are basking in a blanket of snow. The fresh snowfall has attracted a large number of tourists, eager to experience the winter wonderland. However, the heavy snowfall has also led to the closure of several roads and disrupted power supply in some areas.
Mild Weather in Southern India In contrast to the biting cold in the north, southern India is experiencing relatively mild weather conditions. Cities like Chennai and Bengaluru have reported pleasant temperatures, with the mercury hovering around 28-30 degrees Celsius. However, the IMD has warned of isolated thunderstorms and light rain in some parts of Tamil Nadu and Karnataka.
Eastern India Feels the Chill States in eastern India, including West Bengal, Odisha, and Bihar, are also experiencing a drop in temperatures. Kolkata has recorded a minimum temperature of 18 degrees Celsius, while cold winds have swept across Bihar and Odisha.
Experts Weigh In Climate scientists have attributed the extreme weather conditions to climate change. “The frequency and intensity of extreme weather events are increasing globally,” said Dr. [Name], a climate scientist at [Institution]. “These events are becoming more unpredictable, and it is crucial for us to adapt to these changing conditions.”
Government Response The Indian government has issued advisories to people in affected areas, urging them to take precautions to protect themselves from the cold. The government has also deployed relief teams to provide assistance to those in need.
Looking Ahead The IMD has forecast that the cold wave conditions are likely to persist for the next few days before gradually abating. As the nation braces for more extreme weather events, it is imperative for the government and individuals to take necessary measures to mitigate the impact of climate change.
Bhupendra Singh Chundawat is a seasoned technology journalist with over 22 years of experience in the media industry. He specializes in covering the global technology landscape, with a deep focus on manufacturing trends and the geopolitical impact on tech companies. Currently serving as the Editor at Udaipur Kiran, his insights are shaped by decades of hands-on reporting and editorial leadership in the fast-evolving world of technology.