The winter of 2025 is shaping up to be one of the coldest experienced across parts of South Asia as severe cold waves grip countries like India and Pakistan, bringing with them biting temperatures and challenging weather conditions.
The Pakistan Meteorological Department (PMD) reported on Wednesday, following multiple occurrences of single-digit temperatures across Karachi and other regions, indicating the cold is set to intensify. The chief meteorologist Sardar Sarfaraz noted, "Cold may increase in the second week of January," as he mentioned possible light showers across parts of Balochistan from January 3 to 5. Despite this precipitation, he cautioned the public about the likelihood of less snow this winter compared to previous years. Over the past week, temperatures have already dipped to record lows such as -11°C in Skardu and -8°C across areas like Astore and Gupis, leading to health advisories urging citizens to take precautions against the chilly weather.
North India is feeling the pinch of this cold wave as well, with states including Punjab, Himachal Pradesh, and Haryana recording significantly reduced temperatures this December. Areas around Shimla experienced severe chilling, failing to deliver the expected snowfall for Christmas festivities. Notably, Srinagar and Tabo saw minimum temperatures reach -7.3°C and -10.6°C, respectively. Local officials reported the closure of 134 roads, including three national highways, following heavy snowfall, indicating the breadth of winter's impact on transportation and daily life.
Despite the chilly conditions, tourists were left disappointed with no white Christmas to enjoy. The Meteorological Department's expectations for Shimla include another chance of snow and rain from Friday evening to the end of the weekend, bringing residents and visitors hope for late snowfall. “It rained on Tuesday, and the sky remained overcast. But we got respite from the rain and the sun came out, which allowed us to enjoy the Christmas holiday,” recounted Devendra Verma, a local.
These conditions have raised concerns about not just inconvenience but also increased risks to health and safety as frigid temperatures exacerbate respiratory ailments and agricultural challenges. Major cities like Delhi, facing dense fog and low visibility, are experiencing logistical issues including delayed flights and train services, as noted by the Central Pollution Control Board, which reported the city's air quality remaining poor amid the cold.
Relatedly, the air quality index has been concerningly low, with Delhi recording temperatures as low as 7°C, leading to widespread advisories for travelers entering the national capital. The IMD has forecasted dense fog and light rain conditions likely to persist through the holiday season, compounding the challenges faced by commuters during the winter.
Meanwhile, Bangladesh is bracing for severe cold, predicted to dip to 4°C across parts of the northwestern and northeastern regions as the Bangladesh Meteorological Department (BMD) highlights the links between climate change and the onset of harsh winters. Marks of this year's chill have already been felt, as seen through sub-10°C temperatures reported from regions like Sreemangal and Tetulia. The BMD has also indicated potential cold waves could affect most parts of the country after New Year’s Day.
Experts are cautioning the public, especially vulnerable communities, about the serious risks posed by this cold. Past experiences with remarkably low temperatures have led to significant disruptions to agriculture, not just from unprepared crops but also health risks from hypothermia and pneumonia.
Efforts to mitigate these risks are underway, as local and governmental authorities are distributing warm clothing to the vulnerable and ensuring healthcare facilities are prepared for increased cold-related illness. Residents are encouraged to dress warmly, insulate their homes, and consume nourishing foods to bolster health during this harsh weather.
The current severe weather patterns across South Asia are not just isolated events but are indicative of shifting climate norms. Global experts are urging for increased resilience against these harsh winters, as unseasonable cold becomes more frequent and severe. The need for strong community support and awareness campaigns aimed at educating the public on best practices during such extreme weather conditions is highlighted as imperative.
This winter season serves as a stark reminder of the powerful influences of global warming reshaping weather predictability and everyday life across South Asia. With communities unprepared for the extreme cold and struggling to adjust, immediate action and long-term planning will be key to facing these challenges head-on as January approaches.
