Intense cold weather prevails as max temperature witnesses decline of 7.2°C

Residents have been experiencing biting cold weather conditions in the city as the maximum temperature witnessed a considerable decline of 7.2°C. The maximum temperature recorded by the PAU on Wednesday was 10.4°C, which is 7.2°C below normal while the minimum temperature hovered around 8°C.

A weather expert at the PAU, Dr Pavneet Kaur Kingra, said the next two days, the weather would be foggy and chilly winds will continue. There would be dense fog in many areas.

As the maximum temperature is dipped, it has forced residents to stay indoors during early morning and late evening hours. Dense fog reduced visibility at several places, though later the sun appeared for some time giving much needed warmth to residents.

Chilly winds added to the discomfort, making mornings difficult for commuters, labourers and students.

At the same time, students and parents were demanding that seeing the prevailing weather conditions, the government should extend the winter break for a few more days as it would be too difficult for the students, teachers and staff to reach the schools amid dense fog. Later, the winter holidays in schools were extended till January 13.

“We welcome the move of the government to extend the winter break. Otherwise, it would be too harsh for small children going to schools in extreme cold conditions”, said Sonia, a parent.

At the same time, AQI levels have also increased to 340 due to the cold weather. Experts maintained that winter winds reduce the dispersion of pollutants, allowing them to accumulate. Hence, the AQI levels were bound to witness an increase.