India is experiencing an intense cold wave, with the India Meteorological Department (IMD) issuing a yellow alert for several northern and eastern states. Parts of Punjab, Haryana, Jharkhand, and East Rajasthan are bracing for severe winter conditions as temperatures plummet. Daily life is significantly disrupted as mercury levels across numerous states hover between 0 and 10 degrees Celsius. Meanwhile, the Himalayas are set to receive fresh snowfall.
The Kashmir Valley is enduring some of the season’s coldest temperatures. Srinagar recorded a frigid -4 degrees Celsius on Thursday morning, marking one of the lowest points of the season. The IMD forecasts a further temperature drop in early December, accompanied by biting cold nights and dense morning fog.
In Himachal Pradesh, higher reaches are expected to see rain and snow due to a fresh Western Disturbance. Towns like Tabo (-7.4°C) and Kukumseri (-4°C) are experiencing extreme cold. Snowfall is anticipated again on December 7, with clearer weather expected by Saturday. A yellow alert for dense fog has also been issued for the Bhakra Dam region.
Across the North Indian plains, cold wave warnings are in effect. Punjab’s day temperatures are significantly below average, with Adampur recording a low of 3.0 degrees Celsius. Eight districts in Punjab are under a yellow alert for cold wave conditions. Light to moderate fog is predicted for Punjab, Haryana, and West Uttar Pradesh over the next two days.
Jharkhand is also feeling the chill, with a yellow alert for cold wave conditions issued for districts including Garhwa, Palamu, and Gumla for the next 48 hours. Northwest winds are contributing to the sharp drop in temperature, with Gumla recording 5.9 degrees Celsius and Daltonganj at 8.6 degrees Celsius. Temperatures could fall as low as 4 degrees Celsius in the coming days.
Northeast India is not spared, with dense fog expected in parts of Assam and Meghalaya. The IMD predicts that cold conditions will intensify nationwide due to increased activity from a Western Disturbance impacting the Himalayas. Southern India is expected to remain dry. Residents are urged to take precautions, including wearing warm clothing, especially for vulnerable groups like children and the elderly.