Weather Today: Dense Fog and Cold Wave Grip North India, Disrupting Travel

A thick blanket of dense fog enveloped northern India early Monday morning. The India Meteorological Department (IMD) issued multiple alerts for severe cold conditions. The warnings cover Delhi, Punjab, Haryana, Uttar Pradesh, and Madhya Pradesh.Visibility dropped to just a few metres in many areas. The IMD posted an orange alert for East Uttar Pradesh, warning of a cold wave and dense fog. Western parts of the state and the national capital are under a yellow alert today.

IMD Forecast Predicts Prolonged Fog and Cold Day Conditions

The IMD expects dense to very dense fog to persist. It will likely affect East Uttar Pradesh until December 23. Punjab, Haryana, and West Uttar Pradesh may see it until December 22.Cold day conditions are also forecast for isolated areas. According to the IMD, this includes Punjab, Haryana, and Uttar Pradesh on December 22 and 23. Bihar and Jharkhand are also expected to experience these chilly conditions.The sudden dip in temperatures is linked to a Western Disturbance. A subtropical westerly jet stream over north India is also a contributing factor. This pattern is bringing the season’s harshest weather to the region.

Flight Cancellations Mount as Fog Disrupts Airport Operations

The fog has caused significant travel chaos. Over 105 flights were cancelled at Delhi’s Indira Gandhi International Airport on Sunday. This included 55 arriving and 52 departing flights, according to PTI reports.More than 450 flights faced delays due to low visibility. The airport implemented Low Visibility Procedures early Monday morning. Passengers were advised to check with their airlines for updates.Srinagar Airport also saw disruptions. Officials from the Airport Authority of India confirmed nearly 11 cancellations there. Snowfall in Jammu and Kashmir is compounding the travel issues.

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The ongoing severe weather today highlights a widespread cold wave across north India. Travelers should expect continued delays and must check forecasts. Authorities urge residents to take necessary precautions against the cold.

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What is the difference between an orange and yellow alert?

An orange alert indicates a need to be prepared for severe weather. A yellow alert suggests to be aware and updated on the situation. The IMD uses this scale to communicate the severity of expected conditions.

Which areas are under the most severe alert today?

East Uttar Pradesh is under an orange alert for dense fog and cold wave. This is the more severe warning level issued by the IMD for the current weather event.

How long is this cold wave expected to last?

The IMD forecasts dense fog for several northern states until at least December 23. Cold day conditions are also likely to persist in isolated pockets over the next two days.

How has flight travel been affected?

Over 100 flights were cancelled at Delhi airport alone on Sunday. Hundreds more were delayed, with significant disruptions continuing into Monday morning.

What is causing this sudden cold weather?

Meteorologists attribute it to a Western Disturbance and a specific jet stream pattern. These systems are driving cold air and moisture into north India.