1. Delhi continues to experience a persistent coldwave with dense fog.
2. According to the IMD, Safdarjung records 4.8 degrees Celsius, while Palam notes 7.2 degrees Celsius.
3. Transportation disruptions ensue, with around 30 delayed flights and 17 cancellations, along with nearly 30 trains running behind schedule.
New Delhi, Jan 16: Coldwave conditions persist in Delhi as a dense layer of fog envelops the national capital. The India Meteorological Department (IMD) reports a temperature of 4.8 degrees Celsius at Safdarjung, while Palam records 7.2 degrees Celsius.
Flight and Train Disruptions
The deteriorating visibility affects transportation, with approximately 30 flights departing from Delhi experiencing delays, and an additional 17 flights being canceled. Nearly 30 trains destined for Delhi are also running behind schedule.
Impact on Airports
Palam and Safdarjung Airports report visibility of 500m at 0530 hrs IST on January 16, further decreasing to 100m later in the morning. The reduced visibility prompts disruptions in both flight and train operations.
Continued Coldwave Across North India
The IMD forecasts dense to very dense fog till Tuesday in Delhi, Uttar Pradesh, Haryana, Chandigarh, and Punjab. Additionally, North India anticipates cold to severe cold conditions, extending until Tuesday.
Coldest Morning of the Winter
January 15 registers the coldest morning this winter, with the minimum temperature dropping to 3.3°C at Safdarjung and 3.1°C at Lodhi Road. Delhi experiences temperatures below 4 degrees Celsius since Friday, contributing to severe cold conditions.
Coldwave Grips Punjab and Haryana
In response to extreme cold conditions, a red alert is issued in parts of Punjab and Haryana. The cold to severe cold conditions are expected to persist in these states until January 16.
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School Closures and Flight Disruptions in Chandigarh
Chandigarh witnessed three canceled flights and three delayed flights due to the dense fog. Elementary schools in the city are directed to remain closed after January 20, with exceptions for Classes 10, 11, and 12, which will open after 9.30 am.
Low Visibility Across Multiple States
The IMD highlights low visibility in various states, including Gwalior in Madhya Pradesh recording zero visibility and Assam’s Tezpur reporting 50 meters. Several airports, including Varanasi, Agra, and Gaya, experience visibility challenges, impacting air travel.
Widespread Fog Across States
Madhya Pradesh, Assam, Tripura, Andhra Pradesh, West Bengal, Delhi, Punjab, Haryana, Chandigarh, Uttar Pradesh, Bihar, and Northwest Rajasthan witness low visibility, affecting daily activities.
IMD’s Visibility Data
The IMD shares visibility data at airports, indicating challenging conditions at various locations, such as Varanasi, Agra, Gwalior, Jammu, Pathankot, Chandigarh, Gaya, Prayagraj, Tejpur, Agartala, Vijayawada, and Bagdogra.
As the coldwave tightens its grip, the impact on transportation and daily life underscores the need for caution and preparedness during severe weather conditions. The ongoing disruptions prompt authorities to monitor and manage the situation effectively.
