As winter intensifies, the northern Indian state of Punjab is currently under a weather alert, primarily due to the likelihood of dense to very dense fog and continued cold conditions over the coming days.
According to the latest forecasts from the India Meteorological Department (IMD) and other weather agencies (as of December 13, 2025):
Fog Warning (Immediate Concern)
- Dense Fog Alert: The most immediate warning is for the prevalence of dense fog in isolated pockets of Punjab, particularly during the early morning and night hours.
- Duration: The IMD has issued a warning for fog conditions for at least December 13th and 14th.
- Impact: This dense fog is likely to significantly reduce visibility to below 200 meters, which can cause severe disruption to:
- Road Travel: Delays and hazardous driving conditions on highways and motorways. Commuters are advised to use fog lights and drive with extreme caution.
- Air and Rail Travel: Potential delays and cancellations in train and flight schedules.
Temperature and Cold Conditions
- Minimum Temperatures: While minimum temperatures saw a drop in the preceding week (with some areas recording lows around 4°C to 6°C), the forecast for the next week generally indicates a slight rise or no significant change in minimum temperatures, which are expected to hover in the range of 6°C to 8°C across the state.
- Cold Wave: The strong Cold Wave conditions that affected isolated pockets earlier in the month appear to be easing slightly in the immediate forecast (December 15 onwards, according to IMD warnings), though the overall winter season is expected to be colder than average.
- Maximum Temperatures: Daytime temperatures are expected to be around the seasonal average, generally ranging from 22°C to 26°C.
General Winter Outlook
- Dry Weather: The forecast indicates that the weather is likely to remain dry for the next seven days, with little to no rainfall expected.
- Western Disturbance: An approaching feeble Western Disturbance around December 13th is expected to primarily affect the Western Himalayan Region, but its influence on the plains of Punjab is being monitored. A second Western Disturbance is also anticipated later in the week (around December 17th-18th), which could potentially lead to colder conditions afterwards.
Key Advisory for Residents
- Commuters: Exercise extreme caution while driving, especially in the early morning.
- Vulnerable Groups: The elderly and small children should limit outdoor exposure during the peak cold hours and take necessary precautions to stay warm.
- Farmers: The dry and cold conditions, coupled with potential frost in the coming days, may require attention, especially in southwestern districts.
It is highly recommended to check the latest hourly and district-specific forecasts from the India Meteorological Department for the most accurate and up-to-date information before planning any travel or outdoor activities.