New study blames the current cold conditions in the capital on pollution that forms 'cool islands' in the city

The uncharacteristic chill and ever-sliding minimum temperatures across north India, and even parts of south India, are making everyone 'chatter'.

Here's why! The continued spell of cold may be indicative of unusual weather conditions, besides being a byproduct of the growing pollution in urban areas. 

For the third successive day on Friday, Delhi experienced one of the coldest days this winter with the day temperature falling six degrees below normal to settle at 14.6 degrees Celsius.

 

Army soldiers huddle together in the morning chill in the Delhi yesterday

 

Thick snow covers streets and street properties in Dalhousie

The minimum temperature was recorded at 4.5, three degrees below normal and down from Thursday's 4.8 degrees Celsius. The coldest day this season was recorded earlier this week, when the maximum temperature had dropped to 14.5 degrees.

While the weatherman said frequent and strong western disturbances were causing the persistent cold spell, a new study by the Jawaharlal Nehru University (JNU) revealed that the Capital was experiencing a peculiar phenomenon of 'cold islands' formation.

This development, caused during winters due to air pollution, may be aggravating the cold wave conditions. Using the satellite and solar radiation data collected between November and December for four years beginning 2007, the study discovered that the city's day temperatures were lower due to the formation of 'cool islands'.

 

Trains and cars had to battle the conditions high up in the hills of Simla

 

The weather did not stop these men crossing the waters of the Jhelum River

Tourists in the capital were forced to wrap up while sightseeing