A severe cold wave has descended upon northern India, bringing with it some of the coldest temperatures in recent years. In Rajasthan, temperatures have plummeted to an alarming -4°C, marking a record-breaking low that is affecting large swathes of the region. This intense chill has caused widespread disruption, with authorities issuing severe weather warnings for several states across the northern plains.
Cities such as Jaipur, Chandigarh, and Delhi have all reported temperatures dipping well below average, with Mount Abu in Rajasthan experiencing its coldest January in a decade. The cold wave, which has been attributed to icy winds blowing down from the Himalayas, is expected to persist for several more days, with only a gradual rise in temperatures predicted for the coming weekend.
The impact of this extreme weather has been felt in many aspects of life. In Rajasthan, where the cold snap has hit hardest, schools have been closed in several districts to protect children from the freezing conditions. Public transport, including buses and trains, has also been affected, with delays due to poor visibility caused by thick fog and icy roads.
Health experts have raised concerns over the potential risks associated with such cold temperatures, particularly for vulnerable groups such as the elderly, children, and those with pre-existing health conditions. Authorities have advised residents to avoid unnecessary outdoor exposure, dress warmly in layers, and take extra precautions to prevent frostbite or hypothermia. Hospitals have been put on high alert in anticipation of a rise in cold-related illnesses, including respiratory issues and hypothermia.
In addition to the health implications, the cold wave has taken a significant toll on agriculture in the region. Rajasthan is one of India’s key agricultural states and farmers are particularly worried about the impact of these unusually low temperatures on their winter crops. Mustard, wheat, and other crops that are currently in the growing phase are especially vulnerable to frost damage. The extended period of cold weather could lead to a reduction in yields, potentially leading to significant financial losses for farmers.
Agricultural experts are advising farmers to take measures such as covering their crops with protective sheets and sprinkling water during the early morning hours to prevent frost from settling. However, given the intensity and prolonged nature of the cold wave, it is feared that these measures may not be enough to prevent crop damage.
Meteorologists have attributed the cold wave to a combination of factors, including the ongoing influence of the north-western cold winds and the delay in the withdrawal of the winter season. The cold air has settled across the northern plains, and experts predict that the situation will only begin to improve by the end of the week when a slight rise in temperatures is expected.
Government officials have been closely monitoring the situation. They are coordinating with local authorities to ensure that resources are available to support the affected populations. Emergency shelters have been set up in some areas and food and blankets have been distributed to help those in need.
This extreme cold spell is part of a broader pattern of unusual weather events in India this winter, with several regions experiencing unseasonably cold temperatures. Experts have raised concerns about the long-term impacts of climate change on weather patterns in India, warning that extreme weather events such as this cold wave may become more frequent in the future.
As the cold wave continues to grip North India, residents are urged to remain cautious, and farmers are advised to stay vigilant as they manage the ongoing weather challenges. The coming days will be critical in determining the full extent of the damage caused by this rare and intense cold front.
