Wed Dec 25 01:20:00 UTC 2024: ## Snowfall, Heavy Fog, and Cold Wave Sweep Across North India
**New Delhi, India** – A severe cold wave accompanied by heavy snowfall in the mountainous regions and dense fog across the plains has gripped northern India, disrupting travel and daily life. The worst affected areas include Jammu & Kashmir, Uttarakhand, and Himachal Pradesh, where heavy snowfall has closed numerous roads.
In Himachal Pradesh, 223 roads, including three national highways, have been closed due to snowfall, stranding tourists and causing long traffic jams. Shimla alone saw 145 road closures. The Atal Tunnel Rohtang has also been closed to vehicle traffic. Kukumsari in Lahaul and Spiti reported the lowest temperature, plunging to -6.9°C.
Delhi and Rajasthan experienced rainfall, while the India Meteorological Department (IMD) has warned of further temperature drops in Delhi-NCR, Punjab, Haryana, and Rajasthan over the next two days. A dense fog alert has been issued for nine states, with visibility dropping below 10 meters in some Haryana districts and below 100 meters in Delhi. Delhi Airport has issued advisories, warning of potential flight disruptions. At least 20 trains have been delayed. Warnings of hailstorms have also been issued for several states over the next few days.
Rajasthan has seen a significant temperature drop, with nighttime temperatures in 12 cities falling below 10°C. A new western disturbance is expected to bring further rainfall to 25 districts by December 28th.
Madhya Pradesh is also bracing for a cold wave, with predictions of hailstorms on December 27th and potential heavy fog and cold temperatures following.
The severe weather conditions highlight the challenges faced by residents and tourists alike in the region during this winter season. Authorities are working to clear roads and restore normal services as quickly as possible.
First Piper 