Diverse Weather Patterns Mark New Year Across India

As India welcomes the new year, the weather presents a striking contrast across regions. Northern states face severe cold and dense fog, while Mumbai enjoys unexpected rain, improving air quality. The Indian Meteorological Department warns of continued cold conditions and fog in the north, while coastal areas experience unusual weather patterns. This diversity highlights the country's climatic variations and the potential impacts of climate change. Stay informed about travel conditions and safety measures as the year begins.

By Narendra Chaudhary Jan 1, 2026, 16:08 IST

Weather Variations on New Year's Day

New Delhi/Mumbai, January 1, 2026: The first day of the new year showcased a variety of weather conditions across different regions of the country. In northern India, a severe cold wave accompanied by dense fog left residents feeling the chill, while Mumbai experienced unseasonal light rain, which brought relief from pollution and made the city more pleasant.

According to the Indian Meteorological Department (IMD), cold wave conditions and thick fog persisted in the plains of northern India. Several states, including Delhi, Punjab, Haryana, Uttar Pradesh, and Rajasthan, recorded minimum temperatures significantly below normal. Dense fog enveloped Delhi in the morning, reducing visibility and affecting traffic. The IMD has issued warnings for dense to very dense fog in Punjab, Haryana, Chandigarh, and Delhi until January 5.

In contrast, Mumbai welcomed the new year with light to moderate rainfall. Areas such as Walkeshwar, Lower Parel, and Dadar experienced drizzles and occasional heavy showers since morning. This unexpected rain cleared the air in the city, leading to an improvement in the Air Quality Index (AQI), with several areas reaching the 'moderate' category, indicating a respite from pollution. The IMD attributed this rainfall to moisture-laden winds from the Arabian Sea, with light rain expected to continue in the coming hours.

Meteorologists suggest that the influence of western disturbances will intensify the cold in northern India, while such unseasonal rain in coastal areas like Mumbai is unusual but indicative of climate change. Travelers are advised to anticipate delays in road and air traffic due to fog and rain.

The diverse weather at the start of the new year reflects the climatic variety across the country. Everyone is advised to stay safe and take precautions against the cold.