Severe cold wave and dense fog conditions to hit many Indian states from Dec 9 [Photo: Reuters]
A fresh cold wave and dense fog alert covers several Indian states starting Tuesday, December 9. The national weather agency warns of a rapid temperature drop, chill winds, and early-morning fog that could disrupt daily life. From northern plains to central belts and eastern regions, millions may face freezing nights and visibility hazards.
The weather warning spans a broad zone: central, eastern and northern peninsular India. Cold conditions are expected from December 9 to December 12 in parts of Madhya Pradesh, Chhattisgarh and Odisha. Meanwhile, northwest and western states — including Punjab, Haryana, Delhi, parts of Rajasthan, and Maharashtra — may feel the chill from December 10 through December 12.
In addition, isolated pockets in Assam and Manipur will likely see dense fog between December 9 and December 13. Similar foggy conditions may affect East Uttar Pradesh and parts of Odisha on December 9 and 10.
Meteorologists say a mix of global and regional weather patterns is causing the chill. A cyclonic circulation over Bangladesh, a strong western disturbance over north-west Pakistan, and active winds over the Bay of Bengal are all coming together. A high-speed Subtropical Westerly Jet over Northeast India further chills the air.
The result: a sudden drop in night temperatures, shivering mornings, and likely frost or widespread fog in low-lying areas.
Recent nights have turned bitterly cold in parts of Jammu & Kashmir, Ladakh, Himachal and Gilgit-Baltistan. Many towns registered minimum temperatures below 5 °C. In the plains, places like Faridkot and Gurdaspur (Punjab) saw readings dip near 4.5 °C. Regions in west Madhya Pradesh, Odisha, and Chhattisgarh also recorded unusually low night temperatures.
Forecasters expect a slight 1–2 °C rise in minimum temperatures across northwest India, Madhya Pradesh and Gangetic West Bengal — but parts of Gujarat, northeast and southern peninsular states may see a further drop.
Citizens should prepare for chilly nights and poor visibility. Fog can disrupt early-morning travel and increase the risk of road accidents. People with respiratory issues, the elderly, and children should take precautions.
In coastal zones and fishing areas — especially parts of the Arabian Sea and Bay of Bengal — strong winds and sea hazards could cause trouble. Fishermen have been advised not to venture out between December 8 and December 13.
With cold waves and dense fog looming large, large swaths of India must gear up for a tough few days. From thick blankets and warm drinks to cautious driving at dawn, people should stay safe and stay alert. The next few days won’t just test the thermostat — but also how well we handle sudden winter blows.
