Delhi Shivers Under a Blanket of Fog as Cold Wave Intensifies
Delhi woke up to a bone-chilling morning on Thursday, December 19, 2024, as a dense fog enveloped the city and a cold wave gripped the region. The minimum temperature plummeted to a frigid 7°C, sending shivers down the spines of residents and disrupting normal life.
Dense Fog and Reduced Visibility
The dense fog, caused by a combination of cold temperatures and high humidity, reduced visibility to a mere 250 meters at 8 a.m. The city’s skyline was obscured, and commuters faced difficulties navigating through the foggy conditions. The India Meteorological Department (IMD) issued an orange alert for dense fog, warning of potential disruptions to air and road traffic.
Cold Wave Conditions Persist
The cold wave conditions are expected to persist in the coming days, with the IMD predicting a further drop in temperatures. The minimum temperature is expected to hover around 6°C, while the maximum temperature is likely to remain below 20°C. The biting cold is expected to continue to affect daily life in the city.
Air Quality Remains Poor
The air quality in Delhi also remained in the “severe” category, with the Air Quality Index (AQI) reaching 434. The combination of cold weather, stagnant air, and pollutants from vehicular and industrial emissions contributed to the poor air quality. Health experts warned residents to take precautions to protect themselves from the harmful effects of air pollution.
Impact on Daily Life
The cold wave and dense fog have disrupted normal life in Delhi. Schools and colleges have been advised to take necessary precautions to protect students from the cold. Flights and trains have been delayed due to poor visibility. Commuters have faced difficulties navigating through the foggy conditions, leading to traffic congestion.
Government Response
The Delhi government has taken steps to mitigate the impact of the cold wave. Shelters have been opened for the homeless, and free blankets and warm clothes are being distributed to those in need. The government has also advised residents to take precautions to protect themselves from the cold and air pollution.
Outlook
The cold wave and dense fog are expected to continue in the coming days. The IMD has advised residents to take precautions to protect themselves from the cold and air pollution. The government is also taking steps to mitigate the impact of the cold wave on the city.
Additional Information
The cold wave is a result of a western disturbance originating from the Himalayan region.
The air quality in Delhi is expected to remain poor in the coming days.
Residents are advised to avoid outdoor activities during peak pollution hours.
The government has advised schools and colleges to take necessary precautions to protect students from the cold.
Conclusion
Delhi is currently experiencing a severe cold wave, with dense fog and poor air quality. The city is bracing for more cold weather in the coming days. Residents are advised to take precautions to protect themselves from the cold and air pollution. The government is also taking steps to mitigate the impact of the cold wave on the city.