Parts of North India are set to enter 2025 under the grip of cold wave conditions, with rain and snow expected to continue across several states, according to the India Meteorological Department (IMD). The weather agency has forecast a cold wave to severe cold wave conditions in parts of Himachal Pradesh, Jammu & Kashmir, Punjab, Haryana, and Rajasthan from December 30 to January 2.
Cold Wave Conditions Predicted Across Northern States
The IMD has issued a warning for cold wave conditions in isolated pockets of Jammu-Kashmir-Ladakh-Gilgit-Baltistan-Muzaffarabad, Punjab, Haryana, and Rajasthan. The department anticipates temperatures in these areas to drop significantly as cold waves intensify, particularly in Himachal Pradesh, which is likely to experience severe cold wave conditions.
IMD scientists predict that temperatures in Western and Eastern Uttar Pradesh will fall by 3 to 6 degrees Celsius over the next few days. The ongoing weather conditions have already led to light to moderate rainfall in parts of Uttar Pradesh, with thunderstorms expected at some locations. The weather is expected to clear by December 29, paving the way for a dramatic temperature drop.
Snowfall and Rain Continue in Himachal Pradesh
Himachal Pradesh is expected to continue receiving light rainfall and snowfall until December 29, with moderate spells likely during this period. The IMD has identified regions like NE-Chamba, Kangra, Kullu, Mandi, Lahul-Spiti, Kinnaur, and northern Sirmaur districts as those likely to see heavy rainfall or snowfall.
The weather agency also predicts the onset of dense fog and cold wave conditions in the lower hills and plains of the state starting December 30. Shimla and nearby areas are expected to experience intermittent light precipitation through the evening of December 28.
Severe Snowfall Disrupts Life in Kashmir
On December 28, heavy snowfall disrupted daily life across Kashmir, affecting air, rail, and road traffic, as well as power and water supplies. South Kashmir received heavy to very heavy snowfall, while central and north Kashmir saw moderate to light snowfall. The Jammu-Srinagar national highway was closed due to snow accumulation, and train services between Banihal and Baramulla were suspended. Flight operations to and from Srinagar were also halted as a result of the adverse weather.
Rescue operations by the J&K police and the army were initiated to assist stranded tourists and civilians.
Delhi Records Historic Rainfall
Delhi experienced its highest single-day rainfall for December in over a century. A total of 41.2 mm of rain was recorded in the 24 hours leading up to the morning of December 28, marking the highest December rainfall since 1923 and the second-highest in recorded history since 1901. The IMD has issued an orange alert for Sunday and a yellow alert for the next two days, predicting dense fog and advising citizens to remain cautious of reduced visibility in the coming days.
The ongoing weather disturbances across North India are expected to continue affecting daily life, with authorities urging residents to take necessary precautions to stay safe amid the cold wave, snowfall, and foggy conditions.
Sources By Agencies
