Dense fog and a sudden swing in weather have prompted authorities to issue alerts for 35 districts across Uttar Pradesh as a cold westerly wind has driven temperatures down and visibility to dangerous levels in parts of the state.
The India Meteorological Department and senior state meteorologists have warned that the chilly westerly flow is likely to persist for the next three to four days, pushing both daytime and night-time temperatures lower by a further two to three degrees Celsius in central and eastern Uttar Pradesh. In Lucknow, the day temperature fell by around 7°C to 14.6°C on Friday while the minimum registered 8.6°C.
Dense Fog Uttar Pradesh: Warnings and Expected Impact
Officials reported that several districts, including Kanpur, Agra, Gorakhpur and Amethi, are already experiencing dense fog with visibility recorded as near zero in the early hours. Senior meteorologist Atul Kumar Singh said Barabanki and Hardoi were among the coldest districts, with minimum temperatures near 6°C on Friday after Barabanki had recorded an overnight low of 4°C on Thursday.
The forecast lists more than 15 districts likely to see bitterly cold conditions classified as ‘cold days’ over the coming 72 hours. Areas named in the advisory for dense fog on Saturday and Sunday include Banda, Chitrakoot, Kaushambi, Prayagraj, Fatehpur, Sonbhadra, Mirzapur, Chandauli, Varanasi, Bhadohi, Ghazipur, Mau, Ballia, Deoria, Gorakhpur and many more.
Visibility issues have already affected transport. Reports indicate that low visibility in Lucknow caused one Air India flight to return to Delhi after several holding patterns. Road users are warned to expect hazardous driving conditions, particularly during the early morning and late evening hours when fog is thickest.
Meteorologists said the current situation developed after a weakening weather disturbance allowed the cold westerly winds to strengthen, increasing chill and condensation near the surface. Winds are expected to blow at 10-15 kilometres per hour, which may intensify the feeling of cold and reduce day-time warming.
Authorities have advised commuters to allow extra travel time, use fog lights where appropriate, and avoid unnecessary travel at dawn. Those working outdoors, and vulnerable groups such as the elderly and young children, are urged to take extra precautions against the cold. Farmers have been asked to protect sensitive crops and livestock from the sudden drop in temperature.
Forecasters say the broader pattern is not expected to change over the immediate term; Saturday, Sunday and Monday are likely to remain cold with patchy to widespread fog in low-lying and riverine districts. Residents should monitor updates from the meteorological department and local authorities for any escalation of warnings or travel advisories.
Key Takeaways:
- Dense fog Uttar Pradesh prompts alerts across 35 districts with visibility falling to near zero in some areas.
- Daytime temperatures have dropped; parts of central and eastern Uttar Pradesh face a cold wave for the next three to four days.
- Barabanki and Hardoi recorded the lowest minimum temperatures; several districts are forecast to experience ‘cold days’.
- Authorities warn of travel disruption and reduced visibility; residents should take precautions on the roads.
