Cold wave conditions have vacated most parts of Punjab, Haryana and North Rajasthan for the last few days. However these pockets have been smashed by severe cold day conditions since last week. Cold wave conditions have drifted eastward to cover Avadh and Bundelkhand region of Uttar Pradesh. These parts are facing double whammy of cold wave and cold day conditions together.
Very dense fog has enveloped air strips of Prayagraj, Lucknow and Fursatganj restricting sunshine, thereby plunging the mercury levels. After receiving the wet spell between 05th-09thJan, the complete state has turned dry and cold. These conditions will last for another 3 days till 20thJan and relief thereafter.
Cold day condition is announced when the minimum temperature is < 10°C and the maximum temperature is at least 4.4°C below the normal. A severe cold day is when the maximum is at least 6.5°C below the normal. Cold wave is declared when the minimum temperature is </= 10°C and is 4.5°C less than the normal. Also when the minimum temperature in the plains drops to 4°C or less, cold wave is notified.
An active western disturbance is arriving on 21stJan. Also, the induced cyclonic circulation will form over North Rajasthan, Haryana and Delhi, the same day. The duo will gradually shift eastward covering West Uttar Pradesh and North Madhya Pradesh, the very next day. Under the influence of these weather systems, the wind pattern will change over Uttar Pradesh.
Fairly widespread rain and thundershowers at most place with possibility of hailstorm at few places is likely between 21st and 23rdJan. Residual impact with light precipitation may even be seen on the subsequent 48hr over the central and eastern parts of the state. While the cold day may continue on account of inclement weather conditions, cold wave is expected to abate, albeit with likely revival after a brief period of 2-3days.