Guwahati: A steady winter chill has settled across Assam as mid-December sets in, with the India Meteorological Department (IMD) forecasting dry weather, accompanied by morning fog and mist, across the state for the next two weeks, from December 16 to December 30, affecting daily life, travel, and road safety.
According to the IMD, minimum temperatures across Assam are likely to hover between 10°C and 14°C in areas such as Guwahati, while maximum daytime temperatures may range from 24°C to 27°C. Mornings are expected to remain foggy, with skies clearing as the day progresses.
Dense fog in isolated pockets has emerged as a major concern, significantly reducing visibility on highways and rural roads. Poor visibility has reportedly contributed to several road mishaps in recent days, prompting authorities to issue advisories urging motorists to drive cautiously, especially during early morning hours.
The cold wave has also brought back a familiar winter scene across the state, with residents lighting traditional bonfires in villages and urban neighbourhoods. Families and community members are gathering around fires made of wood and dry leaves to keep warm, turning chilly evenings into moments of shared warmth and conversation.
Meanwhile, humanitarian initiatives have intensified to support vulnerable sections of society. Non-governmental organisations, local bodies, and volunteers are distributing blankets and warm clothing to the poor, homeless, and underprivileged, aiming to protect them from the biting cold.
Fog-covered mornings continue to underline the challenges of the season, disrupting travel and routine activities across Assam, even as the state braces for more cold and misty days ahead.