Parts of Gurugram experienced one of the coldest days in decades as temperatures in some areas dropped below 1°C, making the city colder than many popular hill stations. Such low temperatures have not been seen in Gurugram for nearly 50 years. Residents were caught off guard as a sudden cold wave swept across the city, showing how severe winter chills are affecting northwest India this season.

According to the India Meteorological Department (IMD), this record low was caused by an intense cold spell hitting the National Capital Region (NCR) and nearby plains. The IMD issued an orange alert warning people about extremely cold and foggy conditions. Delhi also felt the chill, with minimum temperatures around 3°C, while Shimla recorded a milder 4°C, highlighting how the plains are currently colder than some hill stations.

Meteorologists explain that this rare cold snap happened due to a combination of weather systems. A recent Western Disturbance over the Himalayas brought snowfall to higher altitudes in early January. Later, strong northwesterly winds pushed this cold air into the plains. Clear skies at night allowed heat to escape from the surface, making temperatures drop sharply after sunset.

In hill stations, the situation is a little different. Clouds often cover these areas and trap heat, preventing temperatures from falling as much as in the plains. This is why Gurugram’s temperature became lower than many Himalayan towns this week, which is unusual for winter.

The IMD warns that these conditions are likely to continue for the next few days, with cold winds and dense fog making early morning travel risky and slowing down traffic.

The impact of this extreme cold is visible everywhere. Frost has formed on cars, crops, and grasslands, and residents are bundling up in multiple layers to stay warm. Dense fog and icy roads are making travel slower and more dangerous. Health advisories have been issued, especially for the elderly and children, warning against prolonged exposure to avoid frostbite, flu, and respiratory problems. Emergency and healthcare services are also under extra pressure due to the cold.

Gurugram’s record-breaking cold, even colder than some hill stations, shows how winter extremes can happen unexpectedly in northern plains. Clear skies, strong winds, and unusual weather patterns are creating freezing conditions that many residents were not prepared for.