15 December 2025 Punjab Khabarnama Bureau : Large parts of Uttar Pradesh, Punjab, and Haryana are witnessing severe winter conditions as dense fog and cold wave continue to disrupt normal life. Weather authorities have issued alerts warning residents of poor visibility, falling temperatures, and harsh cold conditions, especially during night and early morning hours.
The sharp dip in temperatures is attributed to cold northwesterly winds flowing from snow-covered Himalayan regions, combined with clear night skies that accelerate heat loss. These conditions have intensified winter chill across northern India, making the current spell one of the coldest so far this season.
Temperature Drop Across States
Several districts in Punjab and Haryana recorded minimum temperatures ranging between 2°C and 6°C, with some rural areas experiencing near-freezing conditions. Cities such as Amritsar, Ludhiana, Bathinda, Hisar, Sirsa, and Karnal remained under cold wave conditions.
In Uttar Pradesh, western and central regions including Meerut, Muzaffarnagar, Bareilly, Agra, Kanpur, and Lucknow reported significantly lower minimum temperatures. The cold was further intensified by icy winds, reducing the “feels-like” temperature during late evenings and early mornings.
Meteorologists classify a cold wave when minimum temperatures fall 4.5°C or more below normal, a condition currently prevailing in multiple districts across these states.
Dense Fog Causes Visibility Issues
Dense fog has emerged as a major challenge, particularly during early morning hours. Visibility dropped to 50–100 metres in several areas, severely affecting road, rail, and air traffic.
- Road travel became risky, with multiple highways experiencing slow-moving traffic.
- Train services were delayed by several hours on northern routes due to poor visibility.
- Flight operations at regional airports saw delays, especially during early morning schedules.
Authorities advised commuters to avoid non-essential travel during peak fog hours and use fog lights while driving.
Weather Alerts Issued
Weather agencies issued yellow alerts for cold wave and fog conditions in parts of all three states. In some districts with extreme conditions, orange alerts were also considered, urging residents to remain cautious.
The alerts warn of:
- Increased risk of hypothermia
- Reduced visibility-related accidents
- Health complications among vulnerable groups
Local administrations have been instructed to remain on alert and take preventive measures.
Health Concerns Rise During Cold Wave
Hospitals across UP, Punjab, and Haryana have reported an increase in patients suffering from:
- Cough, cold, and flu
- Respiratory distress
- Joint pain
- Asthma and bronchitis flare-ups
Doctors have advised people, especially children and senior citizens, to remain indoors during early mornings and late nights. Wearing layered warm clothing and maintaining hydration has been strongly recommended.
Impact on Agriculture
The cold wave has raised concerns among farmers, particularly regarding frost damage to standing crops such as wheat, mustard, and vegetables. Agricultural experts have advised farmers to:
- Avoid irrigation during night hours
- Use light irrigation during daytime if needed
- Monitor crops for frost impact
Horticulture crops, especially vegetables and fruit orchards, remain vulnerable during extreme cold spells.
Effect on Schools and Daily Life
Several schools across affected districts have adjusted morning schedules, delayed assemblies, or issued advisories for warm clothing. Outdoor activities have been curtailed in many educational institutions.
Daily wage workers, street vendors, and homeless populations are among the worst affected. Local authorities and NGOs have stepped up efforts to distribute blankets, warm meals, and shelter in urban areas.
Precautionary Measures Advised
Authorities and health experts have advised residents to:
- Avoid early morning travel where possible
- Use fog lights and maintain safe driving speeds
- Keep infants and elderly warm
- Ensure adequate nutrition and hydration
- Seek medical help if symptoms worsen
Emergency helplines and night shelters have been activated in major cities.
Weather Outlook for Coming Days
According to forecasts, dense fog and cold wave conditions are expected to persist for the next 2–3 days. A marginal rise in daytime temperatures may occur, but night temperatures are likely to remain low.
Relief may arrive only after a western disturbance brings cloud cover or light rainfall, which could help moderate temperatures.
Conclusion
Dense fog and cold wave conditions continue to affect large parts of Uttar Pradesh, Punjab, and Haryana, disrupting daily life and posing health and safety risks. Authorities have urged residents to remain cautious, follow advisories, and take necessary precautions as winter tightens its grip across northern India.
Summary
Dense fog and cold wave conditions prevail in parts of UP, Punjab, and Haryana, reducing visibility and dropping temperatures sharply. Weather alerts issued as health, transport, and agricultural concerns increase.