Feeling the Chill of winter

 

Feeling the Chill of winter? Tips to Stay Warm during the
Cold Wave #Winter Vibes #Stay Warm

As December
deepens, so does the chill across North India, including Jharkhand and Bihar.
The biting cold has people bundled up indoors, seeking solace from the icy
grip.

For those brave
enough to venture out for a morning walk, like myself (albeit a bit later to
catch some warming sunlight!), the telltale signs of winter are everywhere.
Sparkling dewdrops cling to grass, leaves, and shrubs, a testament to the
night’s frigid temperatures.

Newspapers are
filled with reports of the cold wave’s severity, fueled by icy winds sweeping
down from the snow-capped mountains of Shimla and Kashmir. This bone-chilling
cold has blanketed the North Indian plains, with most districts in Jharkhand
struggling with temperatures below 10 degrees Celsius. Some areas are
experiencing a double whammy, with temperatures dipping below 5 degrees
Celsius.

Hospitals are
seeing an influx of patients suffering from cold-related illnesses like flu,
cough, and even conjunctivitis. Doctors are urging everyone to take precautions
and stay warm.

What is a Cold
Wave?

A cold wave is
a weather phenomenon characterized by a significant and rapid drop in air
temperature over a large area for several days. It’s also known as a deep
freeze or a cold snap. These waves primarily affect North West, Central, East,
and Northeast India.

Staying Safe
During the Cold Wave:

Here are some
essential safety tips to stay warm and healthy during the cold wave:

• Dress in layers: Wear multiple layers of clothing
  to trap heat.

• Protect your extremities: Cover your head, hands, and feet
  with warm clothes.

• Stay hydrated: Drink plenty of fluids (1.5 to 3
  liters of water per day) to prevent dehydration.

The Dangers of
Cold Waves:

This weather
phenomenon can be dangerous if not taken seriously. Here are some potential
risks:

• Frostbite: This occurs when the skin and
  underlying tissues freeze, leading to permanent damage.

• Wind Chill: This is the perceived decrease in
  temperature felt by the body due to wind.

• Cardiovascular risks: Cold waves can worsen heart
  conditions.

The Impact of
Climate Change:

Early and heavy
snowfall in the hills further amplifies the cold in the plains as frigid air
descends. Climate change is expected to contribute to the increased frequency
and intensity of cold waves.

Embrace winter,
Stay Warm!

While the cold
wave brings its challenges, it’s also a time to enjoy the crisp winter air.
Here are some tips to stay comfortable:

• Bask in the warm sunlight whenever
  possible.

• Drink warm beverages and eat warm,
  healthy food.

• Prioritize getting enough sleep.

By following
these tips and taking precautions, we can all stay safe and enjoy the beauty of
winter.

Photo caption: Dewdrops glistening on a cauliflower leaf in Ranchi during the cold wave.

Text and Photo by- Ashok Karan,

Ashokkaran.blogspot.com

Please like, share and subscribe.
Thanks