Delhi Gripped by Dangerous Fog and Cold Wave: IMD Issues Severe Travel Alert

Dense fog blanketed Delhi on Tuesday morning. Visibility dropped to less than 50 meters in many areas. The India Meteorological Department issued a severe cold wave alert for several northern states.The IMD warned of “dense to very dense fog” across North India. This weather pattern creates significant travel hazards. Flights and road traffic faced major disruptions due to the low visibility.

Widespread Disruption and Official Weather Warnings

The fog severely impacted early morning travel. A visual from the Dwarka Expressway showed near-zero visibility. Delhi Airport initially reported delays but said operations later improved.According to Reuters, the IMD’s alert extends beyond Delhi. It covers Haryana, Chandigarh, Punjab, and Uttar Pradesh. The cold wave warning is also in effect for parts of Madhya Pradesh and Jharkhand.Temperatures in Delhi are expected to range from 7°C to 23°C. The IMD says both minimum and maximum temperatures will be above normal. The foggy conditions are predicted to persist for several days.

Health Risks and Extended Forecast for North India

The IMD has highlighted serious health concerns. Prolonged exposure to this cold wave increases illness risks. The agency specifically warned of flu, nosebleeds, and respiratory issues.The forecast predicts dense fog for multiple states until early January. Regions like Bihar, Uttarakhand, and Himachal Pradesh will be affected. Parts of Northeast India are also under a dense fog alert.Travelers are strongly advised to use fog lights and drive slowly. People should avoid unnecessary journeys during the morning hours. The situation requires continued caution from residents and authorities.

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The persistent Delhi fog and accompanying cold wave have created a hazardous winter scenario. Residents must heed official travel and health warnings until conditions improve.

Info at your fingertips

Q1: How bad is the visibility in Delhi right now?

Visibility was reduced to less than 50 meters in many parts of Delhi. This qualifies as “dense to very dense fog” according to the IMD. It makes road travel extremely dangerous.

Q2: Are flights being cancelled at Delhi Airport?

Early morning flights faced delays due to the low visibility. However, Delhi Airport reported that operations were running smoothly later. No widespread cancellations were reported initially.

Q3: Which other states are under a fog alert?

The IMD alert covers Punjab, Haryana, Chandigarh, and Uttar Pradesh. Parts of Northeast India, Jharkhand, and Madhya Pradesh are also affected. The warnings extend for several days.

Q4: What is a “cold wave” warning?

A cold wave warning indicates a rapid and significant drop in temperature. The IMD issues it when the minimum temperature dips severely. It poses health risks like flu and respiratory problems.

Q5: What safety tips has the IMD issued?

The IMD advises drivers to use fog lights and reduce speed. People should avoid non-essential travel during early mornings. Staying warm and checking on vulnerable individuals is also recommended.

Q6: How long will this foggy weather last?

The IMD forecasts dense fog conditions to continue in northern states for several days. Some areas may see relief after December 31st. Others might experience it until early January.

Trusted Sources: Information was gathered from reports by Reuters and the India Meteorological Department (IMD).