The Indian Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued an important weather alert on 16th December 2024. This warning includes severe cold wave conditions in North India and heavy rainfall predictions for the southern states. The IMD has emphasized that the ongoing weather systems are likely to cause intense cold in plains and mountainous regions while bringing significant rainfall to coastal regions.

North India Faces Intense Cold Wave

North India is grappling with a harsh cold wave, with temperatures dropping significantly below normal levels. States like Himachal Pradesh, Punjab, Haryana, Rajasthan, and Madhya Pradesh have reported chilling weather, with temperatures falling as much as 5°C below average. Several areas in Rajasthan and Madhya Pradesh even experienced frost formation on the ground, making conditions harsher for residents.

The IMD has extended its warning of severe cold waves from 16th to 22nd December 2024. The cold wave is expected to persist in regions such as:

• Punjab, Haryana, and Chandigarh: Severe cold wave conditions until 20th December.
• Uttar Pradesh: Intense cold expected to continue until 20th December.
• Western Rajasthan: Likely to face harsh cold conditions until 22nd December.
• Madhya Pradesh (East and West): Shivering conditions expected on 16th and 17th December.

Residents are advised to take necessary precautions like wearing warm clothing, using heaters or fires for warmth, and avoiding prolonged exposure to the cold. Public authorities have also been requested to provide shelters for homeless individuals to ensure safety during this extreme weather.

Dense Fog Grips Northern and Eastern States

Apart from the bone-chilling cold, many parts of North and East India are enveloped in dense fog, which is disrupting daily life. The IMD predicts dense fog conditions in the following areas:

• Punjab, Haryana, Chandigarh, and Uttar Pradesh: Dense fog during late nights and early mornings until 18th December.
• Bihar, Odisha, and West Bengal: Fog is expected to affect visibility and transport until 19th December.
• North-Eastern States (Assam, Meghalaya, Tripura, Nagaland): The region will witness similar foggy conditions, impacting daily activities.

Authorities have issued warnings for drivers to avoid speeding due to reduced visibility, and people are being urged to postpone unnecessary travel, especially during foggy hours.

Tamil Nadu Braces for Heavy Rainfall

While North India battles with extreme cold, South India, particularly Tamil Nadu, is bracing for heavy rainfall. A low-pressure system has developed over the central parts of the Bay of Bengal, which is likely to cause significant weather disruptions.

Key highlights of IMD’s rainfall forecast for Tamil Nadu and adjoining areas include:

• 17th to 20th December: Light to moderate rain accompanied by thunderstorms and lightning.
• 17th and 18th December: Heavy to very heavy rainfall is expected in several districts of Tamil Nadu and Puducherry.
• Ryalaseema and Andhra Pradesh: Intermittent showers with isolated heavy rainfall in select areas.

People in these areas have been warned about potential flooding, waterlogging, and power outages. IMD has also advised fishermen to avoid venturing into the Bay of Bengal during this period due to high winds and rough seas.

Impact of Weather on Daily Life and Safety Tips

1. Increased Heating Demand: The demand for heating equipment like heaters and blankets has surged in North India, especially in rural areas.
2. Travel Disruptions: Trains and flights are experiencing delays in fog-affected regions, causing inconvenience to commuters.
3. Health Risks: The sudden drop in temperature increases risks of illnesses such as flu, hypothermia, and respiratory issues.
4. Road Safety Concerns: Dense fog and slippery roads require drivers to exercise caution and reduce speeds.

To stay safe, people should:

• Stay indoors as much as possible during peak cold or rainy hours.
• Keep emergency supplies like flashlights, blankets, and non-perishable food items ready.
• Monitor weather updates from IMD and follow the guidelines issued by local authorities.

Weather Outlook for the Coming Week

The IMD anticipates that these weather patterns will persist over the next few days. North Indian states will continue to witness biting cold, while the southern states, especially Tamil Nadu and Puducherry, may experience heavy rainfall. The contrasting weather conditions highlight the diverse challenges faced by the country during the winter season.