Why is IMD asking people in North India to not drink alcohol during cold wave?

The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued an advisory over the adverse weather condition across north India, asking people to stay indoors.

IMD has advised people in North India to avoid alcohol during cold wave as it “reduces body temperature”. The weather department predicted cold wave to severe cold wave conditions over Punjab, Haryana, Chandigarh, Delhi, Uttar Pradesh and north Rajasthan from December 28.

“Don’t drink alcohol, get indoors and eat vitamin-C-rich fruits and moisturise your skin regularly to counter the effects of severe cold,” the IMD has said in its advisory.

It also asked citizens to avoid or limit outdoor activities, but at the same time, maintain ventilation while using heaters at home “to avoid inhaling toxic fumes”

Experts claim alcohol can decrease body’s core temperature and increase the risk of hypothermia during cold exposure. They also state that alcohol has psychological and behavioural effects, which can impact person’s ability to correctly perceive how cold it is.