New Delhi, November 12 (Weather Desk) — The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued its first cold-wave warning for Delhi-NCR this season, covering parts of Haryana, Punjab, and western Uttar Pradesh, with temperatures expected to drop to 5–6°C over the next two days.
The alert comes amid worsening air quality levels, prompting health and safety advisories across the National Capital Region.
According to the IMD, the cold-wave warning for Delhi-NCR marks the beginning of a prolonged chill phase likely to intensify through the weekend. Meteorologists attribute the sudden temperature dip to northwesterly winds from the Himalayas, following the withdrawal of a western disturbance.
Authorities have cautioned residents about possible health risks, including respiratory problems and hypothermia, especially for senior citizens, children, and outdoor workers. The Delhi government has activated emergency shelters and advised citizens to limit early-morning travel as pollution and temperature inversion worsen air quality.
IMD’s Forecast
IMD scientist R.K. Jenamani said cold, dry northwesterly winds following a recent western disturbance will cause a temperature plunge.
“Night and early-morning temperatures could touch single digits. Calm winds are also trapping pollutants near ground level,” he said.
Delhi’s maximum temperature settled at 23 °C on Monday — two degrees below normal.
Pollution Worsens
The capital’s Air Quality Index (AQI) averaged 420 (Severe) on Monday.
Experts warn that low wind speed and temperature inversion are intensifying pollution.
“Cold weather reduces pollutant dispersion — residents should limit outdoor exposure,” said Anumita Roy Chowdhury, Centre for Science and Environment.
Health Advisory
Hospitals report a 20 % spike in respiratory cases. Doctors recommend wearing N95 masks, using air purifiers and avoiding morning walks.
The Delhi Health Department has deployed mobile clinics and distributed inhalers to schoolchildren.
Government Measures
The Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM) has invoked GRAP Stage IV measures, halting construction, banning older diesel vehicles and urging work-from-home in government offices.
Conclusion
As the cold wave Delhi NCR IMD warning takes effect, the city faces a double crisis — plunging temperatures and toxic air.
Officials say coordination between northern states will be vital to mitigate the impact in coming weeks.
Stay Tuned for more updates Huffindia
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