Cold wave conditions are likely to reset across most parts of the northern plains. Punjab, Haryana, Delhi, Rajasthan and Uttar Pradesh may slip in to near freeze, yet again for the 2nd time in quick succession. Western disturbance will clear the region, along with the induced circulation and make way for chilly winds across the region.
During the last episode in the 1st week of January, mercury levels dropped below the freezing point at few places over Rajasthan. The spread of low temperature between 1-2degree was large and included Hissar, Bhatinda, Alwar, Pilani and Bhilwara. Locations sieged with freeze included Churu (-1.5deg), Sikar (-1.5deg) and Bikaner ( 0.0deg). National capital also recorded the record lowest of 1.9deg on 08th Jan. Cold wave conditions were worsened with cold day, as well, when the day temperatures failed to lift beyond 12deg at few places.
Passage of western disturbance is always heralded by cold winds in the rear. These dry and chilly winds barreling down the slopes of mountains crush the plains repeatedly during peak winters. Western disturbance is on its way out shortly from the hilly states and the cold snap will trigger again the winter woes. However, the blast may not be as rigorous as the previous one. Yet the minimum temperatures will slump below normal to register cold wave conditions, could be severe cold wave as well in some parts.
Cold wave is considered when the minimum temperature drops about 4.5deg or more below the average.
Also, mercury level dropping to 4 degrees or less, irrespective of the deviation from normal, amounts to cold wave conditions. Parts of Rajasthan and Haryana may repeat performance with typical outliers like Churu, Sikar, Hisar and Narnaul clocking 1-2deg. Bhatinda, Ferozepur, Fazilka and Taran Taran may also be somewhere close to it. Capital city Delhi may witness temperature, a shade below 4 degree, but unlikely to lower to 3degree or less. In short, freezing temperatures are unlikely in the plains of North India, during the upcoming 'cold wave'