Uttar Pradesh Weather: Rainfall Intensifies Cold Wave Alert

Uttar Pradesh weather witnessed a drop in temperatures as rain lashed Varanasi, impacting the ongoing cold wave. The India Meteorological Department (IMD) alerts about isolated rain in southern parts and districts bordering Madhya Pradesh, intensifying the chilly conditions. The minimum temperature is expected to further decrease, potentially triggering cold wave conditions in the state. Dense fog covers the state capital, affecting visibility for commuters.

IMD's forecast indicates possible rain in districts like Jhansi, Banda, Orai, Chitrakoot, Kaushambhi, Mirzapur, Sonbhadra, Varanasi, Chandauli, and nearby areas within the next 48 hours. Recent temperature readings show Meerut at 6.4 degrees Celsius, Aligarh at 7.2, Lucknow at 8.4, Sultanpur at 9, and Gorakhpur at 9.4. The state experienced dense to very dense fog, with Bareilly at zero meters visibility, Gorakhpur and Varanasi at 25 meters, and Lucknow and Prayagraj at 50 meters.

Understanding the cold day and cold wave conditions, IMD defines them based on minimum and maximum temperatures. A cold day occurs with a minimum temperature below 10 degrees Celsius, and a maximum temperature 4.5 degrees Celsius or 6.4 degrees below normal. Cold wave conditions are declared when the minimum temperature is 10 degrees Celsius or lower for two consecutive days or is 4.5 notches below the season's normal. Additionally, a cold wave is announced if the minimum temperature falls below 4 degrees Celsius in the plains.

The simultaneous occurrence of a cold day and cold wave signifies a narrower gap between day and night temperatures than normal. The IMD issues warnings of dense to very dense fog in various parts of Uttar Pradesh, further impacting visibility.

As the weather unfolds its wintry tale, residents are advised to stay updated on weather forecasts and take necessary precautions. Stay warm, stay safe.