Delhiites endured cold conditions on Monday with the minimum temperature reaching as low as 3.3 degrees Celsius, marking the season’s lowest so far. A layer of thick fog blanketed most parts of the national capital, resulting in low visibility.
The minimum temperature was recorded at 4 degrees Celsius in the RK Puram area.
Delhi has been experiencing chilly days with minimum temperatures fluctuating between 3 and 7 degrees Celsius. On Sunday, the minimum temperature was recorded at 3.5 degrees Celsius; on Saturday, it was at 3.6.
Also Read:At 3.6 degrees Celsius, Delhi records coldest morning this winter
The India Meteorological Department (IMD) issued a cold-day warning, predicting no significant change over Northwest India in the next 24 hours, followed by a rise of about 2 degrees Celsius over the subsequent four days.
Amid severe fog conditions, the Delhi airport issued an advisory, urging passengers to contact airlines before travelling.
IndiGo Airlines reported operational disruptions due to low visibility and dense fog conditions across North India on January 14, 2024.
“Due to the low visibility and dense fog conditions across North India, IndiGo flight operations were impacted on January 14, 2024. This had a cascading effect on our operations throughout the day. Our staff kept passengers apprised of all delays and cancellations across airports and made every possible effort to facilitate the passengers. We sincerely regret the inconvenience caused to our passengers.”
Parts of North India have been grappling with extremely cold weather and dense fog, causing visibility to drop to 25 meters. A red alert has been issued for 16 districts in Punjab and 8 in Haryana. Ludhiana recorded the lowest minimum temperature at 2.5 degrees Celsius.
Despite the weather challenges, the Delhi Education Department has ordered the reopening of schools in physical learning mode for all classes, including nursery, KG, and primary classes, starting on January 15, 2024.
However, schools have been instructed not to run classes before 9 a.m. or after 5 p.m. due to the cold weather conditions and prevailing foggy weather, an order by Delhi Education Minister Atishi stated.
“In continuation of Order no. PS/DE/2024/14 dated 07/01/2024, it is directed that all students of government, Government Aided and Recognised Private Schools shall join back classes in physical mode at their respective schools with effect from 15/01/2024 (Monday). This includes Nursery, KG and Primary classes as well.” the order read.