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Dehradun: The cold wave in Uttarakhand shows no signs of easing, with the weather department predicting dry and chilly conditions across the state until January 12. Despite bright sunshine during the day, residents are shivering in the mornings, evenings, and nights as temperatures continue to dip.
Recent snowfall in the high Himalayas and the La Niña effect have worsened the cold. In higher elevations, temperatures are hovering around freezing, while Badrinath Dham has recorded minus 8 to minus 10 degrees Celsius at night.
Dense fog has been reported in Udham Singh Nagar, Haridwar, Nainital,
The state remains dry, but dense fog has been reported in Udham Singh Nagar, Haridwar, Nainital, Champawat, Pauri, and the plains of Dehradun. A yellow alert has been issued for these areas. While daytime sunshine offers some relief, the chill intensifies after sunset, making nights particularly harsh.
Health concerns rise
Hospitals are witnessing a surge in patients due to the cold. Doctors at Doon Medical College reported that outpatient departments (OPDs) are seeing nearly double the usual crowd. Cold air is shrinking blood vessels in the nose and throat, increasing the risk of infections.
Medical experts have advised residents to wear warm clothing, avoid cold foods, and drink lukewarm water. Special care has been recommended for those with low immunity, respiratory problems, or diabetes.
Work halted at Badrinath due to the severe cold
The severe cold has disrupted construction activities in the mountains. Master plan works at Badrinath Dham have been halted until March, with workers returning due to the freezing conditions. Around 50 laborers had been engaged in riverfront and building projects, but the dropping temperatures made it impossible to continue.
Lighter snowfall in higher hills
Interestingly, snowfall in Badrinath has been lighter than usual this year. Normally, the Dham receives three to four feet of snow in January and February, but this time the snow has not stuck. Despite this, the biting cold has forced workers to leave.
At Kedarnath Shrine, however, reconstruction work continues despite the freezing weather. More than 50 workers remain engaged in rebuilding efforts, braving the harsh conditions.
Authorities urge people to take precautions
With no rainfall or heavy snowfall expected, Uttarakhand will continue to face dry but bitterly cold weather until January 12. Residents in both plains and hills are struggling to cope, while authorities urge people to take precautions against fog, frost, and health risks.
