The 5-Day Dense Fog Warning
The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued a stern warning for North India, predicting a significant increase in fog intensity over the next five days. Residents of Punjab, Haryana, Delhi-NCR, and parts of Uttar Pradesh are advised to prepare for “dense to very dense” fog conditions. The visibility in many areas is expected to drop below 50 meters, particularly during the late night and early morning hours, making commuting hazardous.
Icy Winds to Worsen Chill
In addition to the blinding fog, the region is set to be swept by icy winds coming from the Himalayan range. These north-westerly winds are expected to cause a sharp dip in both maximum and minimum temperatures. Meteorologists suggest that “Cold Day” conditions will prevail in several districts of Punjab and Haryana, where the day temperature might remain significantly below normal, offering little respite even during the afternoon.
Impact on Transport and Logistics
The worsening weather has already begun to impact the transportation network. Several flights at Delhi’s IGI Airport and regional airports in Punjab (Amritsar and Mohali) are facing delays or diversions. The Indian Railways has reported that dozens of long-distance trains are running behind schedule due to low visibility. Commuters on major highways like the NH-44 (Delhi-Amritsar) are urged to use fog lights and maintain a safe distance between vehicles to avoid pile-ups.
Health and Safety Advisory Health experts have warned that the combination of extreme cold and high pollution levels trapped in the fog can lead to respiratory issues. The elderly and children are advised to stay indoors during early morning hours. Farmers in Punjab and Haryana are also concerned about the impact of the frost on seasonal crops. The government may consider adjusting school timings if the “Cold Wave” conditions intensify further
