Severe Cold and Dense Fog Impact Uttar Pradesh as IMD Issues Alerts

Intense Cold Weather Grips Uttar Pradesh

Varanasi, January 6, 2026: The onset of the new year has brought a significant drop in temperatures across Uttar Pradesh. The region, including Varanasi, is experiencing severe cold due to icy winds and increased humidity. Dense fog during the morning and evening hours has drastically reduced visibility, adversely affecting road, rail, and air travel.

The Indian Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued warnings for dense to very dense fog across most districts in Uttar Pradesh. This situation is expected to persist in eastern Uttar Pradesh from January 8 to 12, while western regions will also experience fog from January 6 to 9. Cities such as Varanasi, Gorakhpur, Lucknow, Kanpur, and Prayagraj have recorded minimum temperatures ranging from 9 to 11 degrees Celsius, with daytime highs projected between 18 and 22 degrees.

According to the IMD, cold day and cold wave conditions are being fueled by chilly winds and moisture from northwestern India. Yellow and orange alerts have been issued in several districts. Residents are advised to wear warm clothing when venturing outside and to exercise caution while driving.

Due to the extreme cold, many districts have announced school closures. In Varanasi, schools up to class 8 will remain closed until January 6, while similar measures have been taken in Lucknow and other cities for lower classes.