Severe Cold Wave and Dense Fog Grip Northern India
Northern India is currently grappling with a severe cold wave and dense fog, leading to significant disruptions in travel and health risks. The India Meteorological Department has issued multiple alerts, including red and orange warnings for various states. With temperatures plummeting and visibility severely reduced, residents are advised to take precautions. The IMD forecasts that these conditions will peak in the coming days, with a potential change in weather expected after January 15. This article provides detailed insights into the current weather situation, impacts, and safety recommendations for those affected.
| Jan 13, 2026, 10:42 IST
Current Weather Conditions
Northern India is currently experiencing a severe cold wave accompanied by dense fog. The minimum temperatures are reported to be 4-6 degrees Celsius below normal, significantly reducing visibility during the morning hours. This has led to disruptions in road, rail, and air travel. The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued several alerts, including red, orange, and yellow alerts across various states.
Alerts and Weather Status (Until January 13, 2026)
- Red Alert: Severe cold wave and very dense fog conditions in Punjab and Haryana. The intensity will peak on January 13, followed by a yellow alert until January 17.
- Western Rajasthan: A red alert has been issued due to cold wave and dense fog.
- Delhi-NCR: An orange alert is in effect until January 13, transitioning to yellow thereafter. Minimum temperatures are expected to hover around 3-4 degrees Celsius. On January 12, Delhi recorded its lowest temperature of the season at 3.2°C, with some areas dropping to 2.9°C. Gurugram recorded 0.6°C, with some locations experiencing frost below 0°C.
- Other Affected States: Cold wave and fog conditions are also impacting western Uttar Pradesh, Himachal Pradesh, Uttarakhand, and eastern Rajasthan. Dense fog has been reported in Bihar and Madhya Pradesh.
Minimum Temperatures in Major Cities (Recent Records)
- Delhi: 2.9-3.2°C
- Gurugram (Haryana): 0.6°C (with some areas experiencing frost down to -1°C)
- Bhatinda (Punjab): 0.6-1.6°C
- Amritsar (Punjab): 1-3.2°C
- Some areas in Rajasthan (like Sikar): below 0°C
Impacts and Causes
- Fog: Visibility has dropped below 200 meters in the mornings, leading to numerous flight delays and cancellations, as well as train disruptions and increased accident risks on highways.
- Cold: The cold weather poses health risks, particularly for the elderly and children, and may damage crops due to frost.
- Causes: The cold wave is attributed to chilly northwestern winds from the Himalayas, clear skies at night leading to radiation cooling, and the absence of any strong disturbances.
IMD Forecast
The IMD predicts that the cold and fog conditions will peak over the next 2-3 days (January 13-15). A new western disturbance is expected to become active from January 15, which will bring:
- Snowfall/rain in the Himalayan regions (Jammu and Kashmir, Ladakh, Himachal).
- Frost in the plains (Rajasthan, Haryana, Punjab, Delhi).
- Light rain is possible around January 18 in Delhi, Punjab, and Haryana, which may provide some relief from the cold.
Safety Recommendations
- Avoid travel during early morning hours; if necessary, drive cautiously (use fog lights).
- Wear warm clothing, consume hot beverages, and use heaters or fires safely at home to stay warm.
- Health department advises vigilance against respiratory issues and hypothermia.