Arctic Chill Grips Northern India: Regions Shiver Under Cold Spell

A cold wave has swept across northern India, impacting states like Jammu and Kashmir, Himachal Pradesh, and Punjab, with temperatures plunging below zero in many areas. Delhi and surrounding regions wrestle with intense cold and poor air quality, while fog alerts and snow forecasts create additional challenges.

The northern states of India, including Jammu and Kashmir, Himachal Pradesh, and Punjab, are reeling under a severe cold wave. Several areas in these hill states have reported sub-zero temperatures, with Shopian in Jammu and Kashmir recording a chilling minus 6.4 degrees Celsius. The regional meteorological offices predict sporadic snowfalls in higher altitudes.

In Delhi, the mercury dipped to 6.8 degrees Celsius, while the city battled very poor air quality, with an AQI of 330. Surrounding states such as Haryana and Punjab also faced below-normal temperatures. In Haryana, Narnaul experienced lows of 3.8 degrees Celsius. With pollution adding to the discomfort, residents were advised to brace for more cold days ahead.

Other affected states like Rajasthan and Jharkhand have issued cold wave alerts, with temperatures expected to fluctuate over the weekend. The IMD forecasts indicate a potential rise in minimum temperatures due to a weak western disturbance, but chilly conditions are slated to persist for now.

(With inputs from agencies.)