Gurgaon experienced a chilling low of 0.6 degrees Celsius on Monday, marking a new temperature record for the city amid the ongoing cold wave sweeping across North India. According to the Indian Meteorological Department (IMD) Chandigarh office, the minimum temperature in Gurgaon, recorded via the Automatic Weather Station (AWS), was the lowest in Haryana, closely followed by Narnaul at 1.2 degrees Celsius.

The sharp drop comes after Gurgaon had recorded minimum temperatures of 1.8°C on Saturday and 4.1°C on Sunday, showing a significant dip over just two days. Delhi, meanwhile, recorded a low of 3°C at Lodhi Road on Monday, a slight rise from 2.9°C in Ayanagar the previous day, reflecting the widespread impact of the cold wave across the region.

Cold Wave and Alerts

In response to the sudden temperature plunge, the IMD has issued an orange alert for Gurugram, advising residents to remain cautious over the next two days. The alert comes as a part of the broader cold wave warning for Haryana and adjoining regions.

An IMD official explained that the cold wave and dense fog conditions are expected to persist in Gurgaon until at least Tuesday. “Before this, the minimum temperature was recorded at 3.8°C on January 3. Today, we observed a significant drop of nearly 3.5 degrees compared to Sunday. The cold wave and dense fog weather conditions are likely to continue in Gurugram until Tuesday,” the official said.

Frost Forms on Fields and Vehicles

The severe cold has led to frost formation in several villages on the outskirts of Gurgaon, visible on crops, vegetation, and even parked vehicles during early morning hours. Weather experts noted that frost formation indicates near-freezing or sub-zero conditions, even if urban temperature readings in the city slightly differ.

Residents shared photographs on social media of frost-laden cars, fields, and rooftops, capturing the icy conditions sweeping across the district. Many also measured the temperatures themselves using personal devices, underscoring the intensity of the cold.

Impact on Daily Life

The ongoing cold wave is affecting daily life across Gurgaon. Commuters have reported slippery roads due to frost in early morning hours, while farmers are concerned about frost damage to standing crops, which could impact productivity. The IMD has urged residents to take precautions, including wearing warm clothing, covering exposed water pipes, and avoiding prolonged outdoor exposure, particularly for children and the elderly.

Dense fog in the early mornings has further compounded travel challenges, reducing visibility on highways and rural roads, which can lead to accidents and transportation delays. Authorities have advised motorists to exercise extra caution and use headlights and fog lamps while driving.

Regional Overview

The cold wave is part of a larger North India weather pattern, bringing sub-zero or near-freezing temperatures to several parts of Haryana, Punjab, and Delhi. Besides Gurgaon and Narnaul, other regions in Haryana and neighboring states are expected to experience cold temperatures below 5°C over the next few days.

In Delhi, while the minimum temperatures are slightly higher than in Gurgaon, residents have reported heavy fog, reduced visibility, and chilly mornings, reflecting the persistent impact of the cold wave across the National Capital Region.

IMD Advisory

The IMD has reiterated that the cold wave conditions are likely to continue, with early mornings expected to remain particularly harsh. The department has asked residents to follow standard cold wave precautions, such as staying indoors during peak frost hours, consuming warm fluids, and ensuring that vulnerable populations, including the elderly and children, are protected from prolonged exposure.

Farmers and Agriculture

Frost on crops is a significant concern for farmers in and around Gurgaon. Frost can damage tender crops and affect yields, particularly in winter vegetables and fruits. Agricultural experts have advised farmers to use protective measuressuch as covering crops with sheets, using sprinklers, or employing other anti-frost techniques to minimize damage during the peak cold wave days.

Social Media Reactions

Gurgaon residents have actively documented the frost and icy conditions, sharing images of their vehicles covered in frost, fields dusted with ice, and trees with frozen leaves. Social media users have also reported checking temperature readings using personal gadgets, showcasing the extreme cold conditions gripping the city.

Conclusion

As Gurgaon records a new low of 0.6°C, the cold wave continues to pose challenges to daily life, transportation, and agriculture in Haryana. The IMD orange alert serves as a reminder of the potential hazards associated with extreme winter conditions, urging residents to take precautions and stay safe. With frost forming across fields and early mornings shrouded in dense fog, the city braces for continued icy conditions over the next couple of days, highlighting the severity of the current cold wave in North India.