The summer’s last breath was definitely the killer wave the residents of the National capital suffered today. Looks like Delhi weather has turned a tad wet and humid as well. The Delhites must also prepare for another shower that is likely to hit the capital city in a matter of hours. The sudden turn in the weather that must have now felt like a freezing shower with the shower present simultaneously, raised eyebrows and also raised concerns with everything including health and travelling as well through the region.
The Present Meteorological Conditions
The recent Meteorology report from the IMD as expected stated that there were light winds and frequent showers throughout the day, with Delhi getting showers ranging from medium to heavy during the past 24 hours. The max temperatures have dropped to almost 6 degrees lower than the expected average temperature for the day. The combination of four things, Cold, rain, lack of proper attire and strong wind is simply detrimental to the occupation of the common man.
Weather experts who have deep explanations for everything have blamed the western disturbances in weather to be the reason for the floods in Delhi and the neighbouring states of punjab, haryana and uttar pradesh. These disturbances are common during the winters, but this season the strength was stronger than the expectations.
Influence on Everyday Existence
Its safe to say that winter is here, but what winter brings along is might cause dire impacts, and one of those is increased traffic everywhere leading to transport congestion.
How the weather continues to shape the social fabric of the common man and his actions is astonishing to comprehend!
During the past several days, traffic congestion and irregularities in public transportation have been reported across territories due to poor weather conditions. Auto rickshaws and buses have also been significantly delayed making people late for work or getting stuck during peak hours.
As many have complained of delays in trains reaching their destinations, the issues have been attributed to severe fog and wet weather conditions. As a result of the weather, several airlines operating from Indira Gandhi International Airport in New Delhi have recommended their clients to check on the status of their flights prior to flying as there are significant chances of delay.
Health Matters
Also the combination of high humidity and low temperatures surely serves as a health hazard. More vulnerable age groups including children, the elderly and people with chronic lung diseases are likely to develop such diseases as cough, flu and pneumonia. Medical institutions in the city are faced with an increased number of patients suffering from climate-related conditions, additional burden on the already struggling healthcare in this segment.
Lack of Shelter Problems
The chilly winds are making it increasingly difficult for the homeless population in Delhi to survive. Many have to rely on self-made tents or fires on the foot paths for warmth which now because of the rain has become impossible to do so.
The city has a significant number of homeless folks and all the blankets and night shelters created by the Delhi government do not seem to work.
Expect More Rain
In the evening, there are chances of rivers of precipitation as showers announce their arrival across the city. The IMD has also released a yellow warning for the place saying people should be careful. The public is recommended to try and stay indoors as much as possible, if they do need to go out, they should wear warm clothes and appropriate raingear.
In the days to come, the agency has predicted heavy fog and that should only worsen the cold spells and complement the already intimidating visibility fears. This is truly worrying for public transport commuters and people travelling in the wee hours because they will be greeted with atrocious highway conditions.
Authorities’ Movement
The concerned departments and the local bodies of Delhi have been actively supervising the situation to avoid any disruptions. Some of the measures which are currently under progress are:
Flood Management: In flood prone areas, municipal teams are always on standby to remove water from the affected highways. To speed up drainage of excess water, pumps and drainage systems have been installed.
Safety Messages: Authorities can use social media and news channels to broadcast timely alerts on the weather, traffic disruption and safety measures whenever its required.
Distributions of Essentials: In response to extreme weather conditions, An distribution has been arranged in which the relief teams are providing blankets and food etc to the affected people especially the homeless and oppressed population.
Actions Residents Can Undertake
Because of the bad weather, A household is encouraged to take such steps:
Dressing up adequately for the cold weather, Put on extra insulated clothing to protect from the extremely cold weather conditions and also wear waterproof clothing in harsh weather.
Traveling reasons, Avoid unnecessary mobility especially during rain or when it’s foggy. But if it is very crucial to travel then check the traffic conditions and the weather outside for better planning of the trip.
Preservation of health, Strengthen the immunity with proper food, stay hydrated and do not stay for too long in cold weather. In case of sickness, seek medical attention as quickly as possible.
Helping the Underprivileged, Reach out to local charities or relief organizations with donations of blankets, food, or any other basic household items. Few good deeds bring great help to the poor.
Looking at the weather forecast, Indeed with the difficult weather and situation we are in, the professional expect relief in some time. According to the IMD, these next two days might see the last of rainfall, allowing the city to dry up.
Still, temperatures are expected to be low still and fog conditions are likely to persist which would extend the cold wave further for a few more days.
The citizens should stay alert and calm as the city has still to withstand severe weather season. If basic initiatives are adopted and people stay informed, Delhi can together face the hardships and become strong.
If you are interested for more: Delhi weather update: Precipitation engulfs the national capital during a cold wave; further rainfall anticipated today. Color Trading Mastery in 92 Jeeto: Tips, Tricks, and Strategies