Northern India has been enveloped by a cold wave, with the chilly winter season in full swing. The mountains are covered with snow while the plains are drenched by untimely rains, enhancing the chill in the air. The rain in Delhi-NCR on Friday led to a further drop in temperatures, with the weather department predicting an increase in cold following this rain. Meanwhile, the cold in Delhi is intensifying. Friday, December 27, 2024, marked the first bitterly cold day of the season in the national capital. Maximum temperatures at Safdarjung and Palam dropped below 15°C.
Temperature Highlights Safdarjung:
Maximum Temperature: 14.6°C Change in 24 Hours: -9.5°C Deviation from Normal: -5.8°C
Palam:
Maximum Temperature: 14.9°C Change in 24 Hours: -6.9°C Deviation from Normal: -5.5°C
Temperature Drop
The maximum temperature plunged by approximately 10°C compared to Thursday. The difference between the highest and lowest temperatures was only 3°C. Nearly 3 cm of rain was documented at Safdarjung in the last 12 hours. The relentless rain and cold in Delhi are disrupting daily life. The weather department forecasts the continuation of rain and cold in the coming days, advising residents to take precautions and protect themselves.
How Much Rain in Delhi?
Various sectors of Delhi recorded 2 to 3 cm of rain since Friday morning. The heaviest showers fell between 11:30 AM and 2:30 PM. North Campus of Delhi University experienced the most rainfall, measuring 2.7 cm between 8:30 AM and 2:30 PM. This rain has heightened the chilliness ahead of New Year celebrations.
Manali in Himachal Pradesh has donned its winter coat once more, with fresh snowfall blanketing the town's upper reaches. Snowfall in Lahaul Spiti and higher grounds around Manali, which commenced on December 27, transformed Solang Valley, Rohtang Pass, and Atal Tunnel into a 'Winter Wonderland' just in time for New Year's festivities.
Source: aajtak
Wettest December in 27 Years
Delhi has experienced the highest December rainfall since 1997 this year, marking it as the wettest December in 27 years, with four days still remaining in the month. The weather department has noted that the tally could rise, with light showers expected in the coming days. The rainfall led to a significant increase in the cold, affecting life in the capital city.
Heavy Snowfall Disrupts Life in Manali
Heavy snowfall in Manali is causing significant disruption. Around 1000 vehicles are stuck on the Manali-Solangnala route due to the heavy snow, posing immense challenges for travellers. Prolonged traffic jams in Solangnala further complicate the situation. Police and administrative bodies are tirelessly working to clear the vehicles, but executing relief in sub-zero temperatures is proving daunting.
Travellers report major hardships, stranded for hours in freezing conditions. Policemen are also struggling to perform their duties amidst these hardships. Authorities have urged people to avoid unnecessary travel during snowfalls and follow essential guidelines. Meanwhile, local administrations are deploying heavy machinery and additional forces to remove snow and rescue trapped vehicles.
The cold spell continues to lash Manali and its neighboring areas, with expectations of worsening weather conditions. Residents are advised to remain vigilant.
