Chandigarh — The Meteorological Department has issued an orange alert for severe cold across Punjab, marking the beginning of what officials warn could be one of the harshest cold waves this season. With temperatures plummeting and dense fog engulfing multiple districts, state authorities have taken sweeping measures to protect residents and essential services.
School Closures Extended Through January 7
In a significant precautionary measure, the Punjab government has mandated the closure of all schools—government, aided, and private institutions—until January 7. The directive came following the Meteorological Department’s grim forecast of intensifying cold conditions and hazardous fog over the coming week.
Temperatures Drop Below Normal
New Year’s Day brought not only rainfall to several parts of Punjab but also a dramatic plunge in temperatures. On Wednesday, the maximum temperature in the state reached a mere 4.8 degrees Celsius, falling 3.7 degrees below the seasonal normal. Gurdaspur recorded the lowest reading at just 5.2 degrees Celsius, highlighting the severity of the cold snap.
Meteorological officials predict that daytime temperatures across several districts will continue to drop further, intensifying the chill factor experienced by residents. The situation is expected to worsen as wind patterns shift, bringing even colder air masses from the surrounding mountains.
Peak Cold Expected January 2-4
According to the Meteorological Department, the most severe phase of the cold wave will occur between January 2 and January 4. During this period, residents can expect dense fog in many districts alongside cold day conditions that will persist throughout the daytime hours. The department has also forecasted rainfall in Punjab over the next two days, further complicating travel and visibility conditions.
Officials emphasized that the combination of fog, rain, and extreme cold creates particularly hazardous conditions and urged the public to exercise caution and limit unnecessary travel.
Air and Rail Traffic Severely Disrupted
The adverse weather has already begun taking its toll on transportation infrastructure. Multiple accidents have been reported across the state, while air and rail traffic have experienced significant disruptions.
At Sri Guru Ram Das Ji International Airport in Amritsar, the impact has been particularly severe. On Wednesday alone, several flights were cancelled due to safety concerns arising from poor visibility and hazardous conditions:
- Air India Express flight IX-320 from Dubai to Amritsar was cancelled for safety reasons
- Malaysia Airlines flight MH-148 from Kuala Lumpur to Amritsar was cancelled
- Malaysia Airlines flight MH-149 from Amritsar to Kuala Lumpur was cancelled
- An Air India flight from Delhi to Amritsar was unable to operate
Airport administration and airline officials have appealed to passengers to verify their flight status before proceeding to the airport. Authorities have assured travellers that efforts are underway to normalize flight operations once weather conditions improve.
Public Advised to Take Precautions
The Meteorological Department continues to monitor atmospheric conditions closely and has urged residents to take necessary precautions during the extended cold spell. Citizens are advised to limit outdoor exposure, dress in warm clothing, and remain alert to updates from local authorities.
As Punjab faces this week-long weather challenge, schools remain closed, transportation remains disrupted, and residents are urged to prepare for one of the season’s most severe cold waves. The state will remain under close observation as meteorologists track the progression of this dangerous weather system.
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