Dense fog blankets Chandigarh, relief expected tomorrow

Orange alert issued, advising residents about the prolonged fog and the persistence of severe cold day conditions

A day after recording the coldest day of the season, Chandigarh woke up to another morning shrouded in dense fog on Monday, maintaining a night temperature of 7.4 degrees Celsius, mirroring the conditions of Sunday.

Commuters braving the chill and fog in Chandigarh on Monday morning. (Keshav Singh/HT)

The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued an orange alert, cautioning residents about very dense fog at isolated places and the continuation of severe cold day conditions at a few locations.

Orange alert is the second highest of the four-level alerts issued by the IMD. Under orange alert, residents are advised to stay alert and be prepared.

Chandigarh recorded a low of 7.4 degrees Celsius, while Mohali registered 7.8 degrees and Panchkula 7.2 degrees Celsius. (Keshav Singh/HT)

IMD officials reported that from the early hours on Monday until 8.30am, visibility ranged between 150 to 170 metres. However, there was improvement, reaching 700 metres by 11am.

Relief from fog is expected from January 9 as a fresh western disturbance is anticipated to bring drizzle and light rainfall. While this might offer temporary relief for two to three days, moderate fog is expected to persist.

The fog and cold failed to deter this morning walker in Chandigarh on Monday. (Keshav Singh/HT)

Sunday night saw Chandigarh recording a minimum temperature of 7.4 degrees Celsius, while Mohali registered 7.8 degrees and Panchkula 7.2 degrees Celsius.