Delhi will see a sharp drop in temperature this week as northern India continues to struggle with unfavourable weather conditions. The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has forecast a minimum temperature of 5 degrees Celsius on Friday.

According to the IMD, the cold wave is being driven by strong northwesterly winds from snow-covered regions in the Himalayas. These winds are expected to sweep across the northern plains, bringing a sharp decline in nighttime temperatures.

“The minimum temperature in Delhi is likely to drop to around 5 degrees Celsius over the coming days. Cold wave conditions are expected to persist, particularly during the early morning and late-night hours,” an IMD official stated.

The plummeting temperatures pose health risks, particularly for vulnerable populations such as the elderly, children, and those with pre-existing health conditions. Authorities have advised residents to take necessary precautions, including wearing layered clothing, avoiding prolonged exposure to the cold, and ensuring proper heating indoors.

Hospitals in the city have also been put on alert for an anticipated increase in cases of hypothermia, respiratory issues, and other cold-related ailments.

The cold wave is expected to disrupt daily life in the capital, with fog likely to compound the challenges. Dense fog is predicted during early mornings, potentially affecting visibility and causing delays in road, rail, and air travel.

Transport authorities have urged commuters to exercise caution while traveling and to plan their journeys accordingly. School administrations are also considering adjustments to timings to safeguard students from the biting cold.

While daytime temperatures are expected to remain in the range of 18-20 degrees Celsius, the sharp drop in nighttime temperatures will define the week ahead. Meteorologists have indicated that the cold wave is likely to persist until the weekend, after which a slight relief may be expected.