North India experienced a sharp winter dip on Tuesday, and Faridkot shivered at 4°C, the lowest temperature in Punjab. The town also stayed the coldest a day earlier at 4.4°C, showing how quickly winter is tightening its grip on the region. Residents began using heavy woollens early in the morning as icy winds continued through the day.
Several districts in Punjab reported single-digit minimum temperatures. Bathinda touched 5.6°C, while Gurdaspur recorded 7°C. Cities like Amritsar (7.8°C) and Ludhiana (7.4°C) also felt a noticeable chill, with early fog adding to slower morning movement. Patiala, which usually stays warmer, dropped to 8.4°C, and Ferozepur followed with 6.7°C.
Neighbouring Haryana also faced a significant dip in temperatures. Hisar remained the coldest in the state at 6.3°C, continuing its trend of sharp winter lows. Sirsa recorded 7.8°C, while Karnal touched 8°C. Gurugram, known for its urban heat zone, still dipped to 9.8°C. Rohtak (8.2°C) and Ambala (10.3°C) also reported a clear fall in night temperatures.
Meanwhile, Chandigarh, the common capital of Punjab and Haryana, recorded a minimum of 7.9°C, signalling the steady arrival of a stronger cold wave over the northern plains.
Meteorological officials noted that cold northwesterly winds and clear skies are intensifying the chill. They expect temperatures to drop further over the next few days as dry winds continue to sweep across the region. With no immediate western disturbance, the cold wave is likely to strengthen.
People across Punjab, Haryana, and Chandigarh have started preparing for a deeper winter. Early morning walkers reduced outdoor activity, roadside vendors lit small fires, and schools advised students to wear extra warm layers. The cold wave, which has arrived earlier than usual this season, now appears set to stay.
