Dry cold triggers seasonal illnesses in Punjab; light rain likely on New Year to bring relief
Doctors are reporting noticeable rise in seasonal ailments such as cough, cold, sore throat, and respiratory discomfort, particularly among children and the elderly
PTC Web Desk: Punjab continues to reel under intense winter conditions, with a prolonged spell of dry cold, dense fog, and chilly winds affecting daily life and public health across the state. However, weather experts have forecast partial relief from the harsh dry weather around the New Year, with light rainfall expected in several districts on December 31 and January 1.
Across the country, a cold wave has tightened its grip, with snowfall already underway in the hill states. The plains, including Punjab, are witnessing severe cold conditions accompanied by persistent fog. The absence of rainfall has resulted in what meteorologists describe as “dry cold”, a condition that is increasingly impacting people’s health.
Doctors and health experts report a noticeable rise in seasonal ailments such as cough, cold, sore throat, and respiratory discomfort, particularly among children and the elderly.
Orange and yellow fog alerts issued
The Meteorological Department has issued an Orange Alert for dense fog in several districts of Punjab for today, warning of extremely low visibility in many areas. A Yellow Alert has been issued for the following three days, indicating continued foggy conditions, especially during night and early morning hours.
In some pockets, visibility is expected to drop to near-zero levels over the next two days, posing risks for road, rail and air travel.
Light rain to ease dry cold conditions
Providing details on the upcoming weather change, meteorologist Pavneet Kaur Kingra from Punjab Agricultural University (PAU), Ludhiana, said that fluctuating temperatures have been observed, but the lack of precipitation has intensified dry cold conditions.
She stated that light rain is likely in several parts of Punjab on December 31 and January 1, which is expected to bring temporary relief from dry cold and also help reduce fog intensity.
According to her, while dense fog will continue for the next two days, conditions are expected to improve around the New Year due to the anticipated rainfall.
Cold to intensify after January 1
Weather officials have cautioned that despite the brief relief, cold conditions are expected to intensify after January 1. Night temperatures may fall further by three to four degrees Celsius, driven by icy winds flowing into the plains from snow-covered mountainous regions.
The Meteorological Department has indicated that severe cold conditions may persist across Punjab for the next 15 days, keeping winter firmly in control.
Favourable for crops, caution advised for health
Meteorologists have described the expected light rain as beneficial for standing crops, especially wheat and other rabi crops, as it will improve soil moisture levels.
However, residents have been advised to take special care of their health, remain adequately warm, avoid early-morning exposure where possible, and follow safety precautions during periods of dense fog.