Dense fog and biting winds marked the first days of the year in Dhanbad, leaving residents facing severe cold and disrupted rail services. According to the meteorological department, minimum temperatures are expected to remain 3–4°C below normal for much of January, with particularly low night-time readings forecast through Makar Sankranti.
Dhanbad weather update and expected impact
The weather office has issued a detailed outlook for the fortnight ahead. From 2 to 8 January, minimum temperatures are likely to fall by 4–11°C in many places, while the period from 9 to 15 January may see temperatures 3–9°C below typical values. The combined effect means January could feel colder than December across the region.
Meteorologists attribute the persistent chill to the simultaneous activation of several systems. A western disturbance is active at upper levels as a cyclonic circulation, the jet stream over northern India remains strong, and a separate cyclonic circulation has formed above the Bay of Bengal. These factors are producing frequent temperature fluctuations and enhanced advection of cold air from the Himalaya.
Local conditions are compounding the discomfort. Dense fog has lingered well into the morning hours, particularly affecting rural areas more than the city. While skies clear during the day, cold northerly winds and lingering low-level moisture will keep daytime temperatures low, meaning residents feel the chill even in sunshine.
Transport services were among the most visible casualties of the fog. The New Delhi–Howrah Rajdhani Express arrived about five and a half hours late, while the New Delhi–Sialdah Rajdhani was delayed by approximately 17 hours, reaching its destination late at night. Other long-distance services, including the Kalka–Howrah Netaji Express and the New Delhi–Bhubaneswar Rajdhani, also reported delays ranging from several hours to six hours. Passengers and rail authorities have been advised to expect further schedule disruptions if fog persists.
Public health officials have urged caution. Prolonged exposure to low temperatures raises the risk of respiratory problems and hypothermia among vulnerable groups, particularly the elderly and infants. Citizens are advised to wear layered clothing, avoid prolonged outdoor exposure during the coldest hours, keep homes adequately warm, and check on elderly neighbours and relatives.
Looking ahead, the weather office says no significant rainfall is likely for the month, but the combination of Himalayan winds and morning fog will maintain lower-than-normal temperatures. Agricultural activities that depend on daytime warmth could be affected, and authorities are monitoring conditions for any additional advisories.
For commuters and travellers, officials recommend allowing extra time, checking train and bus updates before departure, and following guidance from local authorities. Residents should also prepare for continued chilly mornings through Makar Sankranti and plan accordingly for health and travel.
Key Takeaways:
- Persistent dense fog and icy winds keep temperatures 3–4°C below normal across Dhanbad.
- Forecast indicates falling night temperatures through 15 January due to western disturbances and a cyclonic circulation over the Bay of Bengal.
- Dhanbad weather update: widespread fog has caused major train delays, with some services running several hours late.
- Residents advised to take precautions for cold-related health risks and expect clear days but cold afternoons.
