While the weather in Lucknow has remained predominantly cloudy in the past week, the city, basking in pleasant sunshine, enjoyed a brief breather from the cold on Republic Day. Yesterday, Lucknow recorded a minimum temperature of 8°C, with the maximum temperature peaking at 18°C, a degree below normal. However, the city continues to grapple with severe air pollution, as the Air Quality Index (AQI) soared to 333.

According to the latest forecast from the regional meteorological centre, the return of an intense cold spell is anticipated this week. Bone-chilling gusts of wind and dense fog are expected to impact the evening and late-night hours on both January 27 and 28. Additionally, the minimum temperature is forecasted to plummet below 7 degrees Celsius on these days.

In view of these conditions, the IMD has issued a fog warning for Lucknow and its neighbouring areas, urging commuters on highway routes to exercise caution.