Frozen Punjab: Icy Weather Continues with Sharp Temperature Drops Across 18 Districts

Chandigarh (The Uttam Hindu): In the past 24 hours, the maximum average temperature in Punjab has dropped by 0.5 degrees Celsius, although it remains near normal. Faridkot recorded the highest average temperature at 24.2 degrees Celsius. Nights, however, have turned colder, with Faridkot recording a night temperature of 0 degrees Celsius. December is beginning to showcase its winter chill, with the Meteorological Department issuing a yellow alert for a cold wave across Punjab and Chandigarh. Residents are likely to experience the cold wave conditions until December 24.

Additionally, an alert has been issued for a sharp drop in temperatures across 18 districts today (Wednesday). The Meteorological Department reports that a western disturbance is forming over the Himalayan region, which is expected to cause a further dip in temperatures in the coming days. The temperature may decrease by 2 to 3 degrees Celsius. Punjab's districts, including Kapurthala, Jalandhar, Firozpur, Faridkot, and Moga, are under an orange alert for cold wave conditions today. Meanwhile, a yellow alert has been issued for Pathankot, Gurdaspur, Amritsar, Tarn Taran, Hoshiarpur, Nawanshahr, Fazilka, Muktsar, Bathinda, Fatehgarh Sahib, Rupnagar, Patiala, and Mohali.

Health precautions during cold weather

Cold weather conditions increase the risk of various illnesses such as flu and nasal infections, which often occur or worsen due to prolonged exposure. Shivering should not be ignored as it indicates the body is losing heat. If possible, stay indoors to avoid prolonged exposure to cold temperatures. Extended exposure can lead to hypothermia, causing symptoms like pale, numb, or stiff skin. In severe cases, frostbite may occur, visible as blackened blisters on exposed areas like fingers, toes, ears, and the nose.

Stay prepared

In extreme cases, hospitalization might be required. Certain sectors, including agriculture, water supply, transportation, and electricity, may face disruptions. It is advisable to wear sufficient layers of warm clothing to stay insulated. Layered clothing provides additional protection against the cold. Limit outdoor activities as much as possible, and avoid traveling to minimize exposure to cold winds. Keep yourself dry; change wet clothes immediately to prevent further loss of body heat.