Rain Expected in Punjab, Haryana, Delhi-NCR; Cold Wave from December 9, IMD Predicts
Cold Wave to Grip Northern india Starting December 9,Bringing Relief from Delhi’s Smog
New Delhi,December 8 – brace yourselves for a chilly December,as a cold wave is set to sweep across northern India starting december 9,bringing a welcome respite from the recent smog that has blanketed the region.
The India Meteorological Department (IMD) predicts that a western disturbance over central Pakistan and its surrounding areas will bring light to moderate rainfall in the Himalayas over the next two days. This system will also bring a brief spell of light rain to Punjab,haryana,and Delhi-NCR.
[Image: A foggy morning near Kalindi Kunj amid rising air pollution in December 08, 2024. (Photo by Sunil Ghosh / Hindustan Times)]
“Temperatures could rise slightly in Punjab, Haryana, and Delhi-NCR on December 8 and 9,” said IMD scientist Naresh Kumar. “Though, after December 9, temperatures are expected to plummet, leading to cold wave conditions.”
The cold wave is expected to first hit Rajasthan, followed by Punjab and Haryana around December 11. The IMD has issued a warning for cold wave conditions in West Rajasthan from December 9 to 14, while Punjab, Haryana-Chandigarh, and West Uttar Pradesh are expected to experience similar conditions starting December 11.
The IMD defines “cold wave conditions” as a meaningful drop in temperature compared to the normal climate in the region.
Delhi Prepares for the Chill
In anticipation of the cold wave, Delhi authorities have set up night shelters at various locations, including AIIMS, Lodhi Road, and the Nizamuddin flyover, providing refuge for those seeking shelter from the biting cold.
While the impending cold wave offers a temporary reprieve from the hazardous air quality, Delhi’s air quality remains a concern.The average Air Quality Index (AQI) dipped to the ”very poor” category on Sunday, reaching 302 at 4 pm.
Earlier this week, the Supreme Court allowed the Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM) to relax GRAP-IV restrictions in Delhi.However, GRAP stages I and II will remain in effect across the Delhi-NCR region.
Brace for teh Cold: Expert Discusses Upcoming Indian Cold Wave
NewsDirect3.com Exclusive Interview
NewsDirect3.com: With a cold wave set to sweep across northern India starting December 9th, bringing much-needed respite from Delhi’s persistent smog, we spoke with Dr. Priya Bajaj, a leading climatologist at the Indian Institute of Science, to understand the causes and potential impacts of this weather event.
NewsDirect3.com: Dr. Bajaj, can you explain the meteorological factors driving this cold wave?
Dr. Bajaj: This cold wave is directly linked to a Western Disturbance currently situated over central Pakistan. This system will bring light to moderate rainfall in the Himalayas over the next two days. As this disturbance moves eastward, it will usher in a mass of cold, dry air from the north, causing temperatures to plummet across northern India.
NewsDirect3.com: The IMD has issued warnings for Rajasthan,Punjab,Haryana,and Uttar Pradesh.Which regions are likely to be most severely impacted?
Dr. Bajaj: While the entire region will experience a notable drop in temperature, Rajasthan, being geographically more exposed, is expected to face the most intense cold wave conditions. We anticipate temperatures falling well below normal for this time of year,potentially leading to freezing temperatures in some areas.
NewsDirect3.com: This cold wave offers temporary relief from Delhi’s air pollution.Can we expect any long-term improvements in air quality?
Dr. Bajaj: While the cold wave will temporarily disperse pollutants, it’s crucial to remember that air quality is a complex issue influenced by various factors. Long-term solutions require addressing the root causes of pollution,including industrial emissions,vehicular traffic,and agricultural practices.
NewsDirect3.com: Thank you for sharing your insights, Dr. Bajaj. What advice do you have for peopel in the affected regions?
Dr.bajaj: It’s vital to prepare for the extreme cold. Stay warm by wearing appropriate clothing, ensure your homes are properly insulated, and check on vulnerable individuals like the elderly and those with pre-existing medical conditions.