A dense fog advisory has been issued for Punjab, Haryana, Chandigarh, Delhi, Uttar Pradesh, Bihar, Odisha, Assam, Meghalaya, and Rajasthan from December 28 to 31, mainly during early morning hours. Likewise, parts of Himachal Pradesh are likely to witness dense fog late at night and early in the morning till December 29.
Amidst continuous snowfall in the mountains, a new Western Disturbance has developed, which is forming a trough in the lower westerly winds. It will draw significant moisture from the Arabian Sea and Bay of Bengal on Friday and Saturday, leading to heavy rain and hailstorms in many states, including Punjab and Haryana. This will further intensify the cold wave.
The Meteorological Department has forecasted heavy rain and lightning on Friday in Punjab, Haryana, Chandigarh, western Uttar Pradesh, Rajasthan, and Gujarat. Heavy rain is also predicted for Friday and Saturday in Madhya Pradesh, Chhattisgarh, Madhya Maharashtra, and Marathwada. Hailstorms are likely to occur on Friday in Himachal Pradesh, Punjab, Haryana, Chandigarh, western Uttar Pradesh, Rajasthan, eastern Madhya Pradesh, Vidarbha, Chhattisgarh, Maharashtra, and Gujarat due to this disturbance. Hailstorms are also likely to strike Madhya Pradesh on Friday and Saturday.
Fog-Sensitive Regions
Dense fog is expected to continue in Punjab, Haryana, Chandigarh, Delhi, Uttar Pradesh, Bihar, Odisha, Assam, Meghalaya, and Rajasthan from December 28–31. Himachal Pradesh is likely to see the same situation till December 29.
Recommendation
The authorities should decide to declare winter holidays in order to keep the people safe and comfortable during such a harsh weather period.