Deep Freeze in Delhi-NCR: Temperatures Plummet to 3-Year Low as Cold Wave Peaks
Reported by State Correspondents News Desk
A relentless cold wave has tightened its grip on North India, sending mercury levels tumbling to record lows across the National Capital Region (NCR). On the morning of Makar Sankranti, Delhi recorded a minimum temperature of 3.2°C at the Safdarjung base station, the lowest January reading since 2023.
Regional Temperature Pulse
| Location | Min. Temperature | Departure from Normal |
|---|---|---|
| Gurugram (Historic Low) | 0.6°C | -5.0°C |
| Delhi (Safdarjung) | 3.2°C | -4.0°C |
| Hisar (Haryana) | 0.5°C | -6.0°C |
| Bathinda (Punjab) | 0.6°C | -4.5°C |
“Flash Fog” and Travel Chaos
Meteorologists described a rare “Flash Fog” phenomenon that engulfed the capital within minutes this morning, reducing visibility to below 50 meters. The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has maintained an Orange Alert for Delhi and a Red Alert for parts of Punjab and Haryana, warning of severe cold wave conditions and ground frost in isolated pockets.
⚠️ IMD Safety Advisory
- Schools in Delhi to remain closed until January 15 due to the extreme chill.
- Night-time driving is discouraged as visibility remains highly unpredictable.
- Elderly and children are advised to stay indoors as AQI levels have also slipped into the ‘Very Poor’ category (354).
While the IMD predicts the intensity may ease slightly after today, a Yellow Alert will remain in effect until January 17, as the biting winds continue to sweep through the northern plains.
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