As a bitter cold wave grips north India, a weather enthusiast in Haryana’s Gurugram has reported a shocking sub-zero temperature, even as official India Meteorological Department (IMD) readings indicated relatively milder conditions. The discrepancy highlights the intensity of localized frost and extreme cold experienced across the region.

Weather Enthusiast Records Minus 0.9°C

On Tuesday morning, Navdeep Dahiya, a weather watcher, posted on X (formerly Twitter) that his device had recorded a minimum temperature of minus 0.9 degrees Celsius in Gurugram’s suburban areas. He also shared visuals showing “massive ground frost and ice” covering roads, grass, and vehicle surfaces, claiming similar conditions were observed across other parts of Delhi NCR.

Dahiya’s sub-zero readings came a day after Gurugram experienced its coldest January day in nearly 50 years, with a recorded minimum of 0.6 degrees Celsius on Monday. According to him, ground frost persisted for the second consecutive morning, suggesting localized pockets of extreme cold not fully captured by official measurements.

Official IMD Readings Contrast Sub-Zero Claims

The India Meteorological Department, however, reported a minimum temperature of 3.3 degrees Celsius for Gurugram on Tuesday. While this reading does not indicate sub-zero conditions, it still reflects significantly cold weather, consistent with the ongoing cold wave in the region.

Meteorologists explain that such differences can occur due to “microclimates” and localized frost. While IMD readings reflect standardized measurements at weather stations, ground-level temperatures—especially in open or suburban areas—can drop below official minimums due to radiational cooling, calm winds, and clear skies during the night.

North India Faces Severe Chill

The cold wave has extended across Punjab, Haryana, Delhi, and neighboring states. Chandigarh, serving as the joint capital of Punjab and Haryana, recorded a minimum of 2.8 degrees Celsius, the lowest in nine years. In Punjab, Ballowal Saunkhri in SBS Nagar touched 0 degrees Celsius, while Bathinda logged 1.6 degrees, and Ludhiana, Patiala, and Amritsar recorded minimums of 2.6, 3, and 4.1 degrees Celsius respectively. Haryana’s Hisar and Narnaul also experienced lows of 1.5 and 1.8 degrees Celsius.

Delhi, meanwhile, reported a minimum temperature of 3 degrees Celsius, more than four degrees below normal, marking the coldest January day in the capital since 2023. Safdarjung, Palam, and Lodhi Road stations recorded similar minimums, with dense fog and cold winds keeping daytime temperatures suppressed.

Frost, Fog, and Hazardous Conditions

The ongoing cold wave has caused widespread ground frost across Gurugram and the National Capital Region. Frost has been observed on grass, crops, vehicles, and elevated roads, creating hazardous driving conditions in the early mornings. Dahiya’s post highlights this phenomenon, showing ice formation on various surfaces and underscoring the risks posed to commuters.

The IMD has issued an orange alert across Haryana, Delhi, and neighboring states until January 13, warning of cold wave to severe cold wave conditions, dense fog, and the likelihood of continued ground frost.

Meteorologists have forecasted that abnormally low temperatures are likely to persist for the next few days before gradually increasing later in the week. Residents have been advised to take precautions against the chill, particularly vulnerable populations such as children, the elderly, and those with respiratory conditions.

Local Impacts and Advisory

The extreme cold has affected daily life in Gurugram and surrounding areas. Morning commuters face slippery roads due to frost and limited visibility due to dense fog. Authorities have urged motorists to drive cautiously and advised schools and offices to remain alert to potential disruptions caused by the cold and fog.

While official temperatures remain above freezing, the reports of sub-zero readings underscore the need for localized monitoring and awareness. Ground frost, though sometimes not reflected in standard meteorological data, can have serious implications for agriculture, traffic safety, and personal health during prolonged cold spells.

In summary, Gurugram continues to experience historic winter conditions. While the IMD reports minimums slightly above freezing, ground-level observations and frost conditions suggest that residents in suburban areas may still encounter sub-zero temperatures and icy conditions. The cold wave is expected to gradually ease later in the week, but for now, caution and preparation remain essential.