State shivers as dense fog, winds bring down mercury

Dense fog coupled with high velocity of wind brought down the maximum and minimum temperatures across Haryana, leaving residents grappling with biting cold conditions. It also reduced the visibility on roads, slowing down the speed of vehicles on roads as well as of trains on Sunday.

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The state has witnessed a fall of 2.3°C in average minimum temperature, above the normal temperature by 3.6°C. The lowest minimum temperature in the state was 6.3°C which was recorded at Narnaul.

The minimum temperature of Ambala was recorded at 11.1°C, 9°C in Hisar, 11°C in Karnal, 11°C in Rohtak, 8.9°C in Bhiwani, 9.6°C in Jind, 11.6°C in Kurukshetra, 9.6°C in Mahendragarh, 12.3°C in Panipat, 6.8°C in Sirsa, and 11.6 °C in Yamunanagar, said the data of the IMD.

Similarly, the state has recorded a fall of 1.2°C in average maximum temperature as compared to Saturday. However, it is below 4.5°C in the state. The highest maximum temperature in the state was 22.5°C, which was recorded in Yamunanagar.

Ambala has recorded 15.8°C as maximum temperature, 13.6°C in Hisar, 13°C in Karnal, 12.2°C in Rohtak, 11.7°C in Bhiwani, 13.4°C in Sirsa, 13.2°C in Gurugram, 11.9°C in Jind, 14.6°C in Mahendragarh, 17.2°C in Palwal, 13.6°C in Panipat and 14.7°C in Sonepat.

The scientists of the Indian Institute of Wheat and Barley Research (IIWBR) have already claimed that the dip in temperature is a boon for wheat crop and they are expecting a good yield if the current climatic conditions prevail for some more days.

As per sources, the dense fog disrupted road and rail traffic, causing delays and posing a challenge for commuters. Morning walkers and outdoor workers were particularly affected as the bone-chilling weather made outdoor activities difficult.

“It is getting harder to step out in this weather. The fog and wind are making it unbearable,” said Vijay Kumar, a resident.

Doctors also advised people to take precautions against the cold, especially vulnerable groups such as children and the elderly.

“The dip in temperature can lead to respiratory problems and cold-related illnesses. It is crucial to stay warm. Morning and evening walkers, especially children and the elderly, should avoid going out in the fog. The persons who are suffering from respiratory illnesses and cardiac problems should also avoid going out,” said Dr Amandeep Singh, head department of medicine of Kalpana Chawla Government Medical College (KCGMC).

The IMD officials said dense fog and chilly winds were likely to persist over the next few days.