Punjab Endures Severe Cold
Bathinda, Faridkot Log Lowest 3.2°C on Jan 14
Chandigarh January 14
Punjab shivers under a relentless cold wave, with Bathinda and Faridkot recording the state’s lowest minimum temperatures of 3.2°C, as per the India Meteorological Department (IMD) Chandigarh Centre’s latest observed data.
The statewide average minimum lags 3.2°C below normal, showing minor rises from yesterday across stations despite the freeze.
Thick fog enveloped the state at dawn, slashing visibility and amplifying the biting chill felt statewide.
IMD Chandigarh’s January 14 bulletin lists no rainfall in the past 24 hours, underscoring dry, cold conditions.
Chandigarh city noted 3.8°C, Ludhiana 4.3°C, Bathinda and Faridkot 3.2°C, Gurdaspur-Amritsar 7.5°C and Sri Muktsar Sahib-Malout 5.3°C.
Schools Reopen, Kids Shiver
Punjab schools reopened today post-winter break extensions, with classes resuming amid sub-5°C lows; Education Minister Harjot Singh Bains had announced January 14 as the start date.
Students bundled up against the frost, while fog disrupted morning commutes.Motorists face grave risks from the dense fog blanket persisting through January 15, with visibility often under 200m on major highways like NH-44 near Ludhiana and Bathinda.
Authorities caution drivers: activate fog lights and hazards, keep 100m vehicle gaps, avoid night drives, check traffic via official apps, and refrain from speeding. “Fog intensifies post-sunrise; proceed with extreme care,” IMD advises.
This spell ties into IMD’s outlook of severe cold wave over northwest India until January 16, fueled by radiant cooling under clear skies.
Farmers protect rabi crops and livestock from frost in key districts. Lohri’s warmth offers fleeting relief, but maximums hover at 15-17°C tomorrow. Residents hunker down; hourly IMD Chandigarh updates recommended.
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