North India is witnessing intense cold wave conditions with dense fog, light rain and freezing winds affecting daily life. Several states including Delhi-NCR, UP, Punjab and Haryana are on alert for cold day conditions.
North India Shivers as Temperatures Drop, South Braces for Heavy Rain
New Delhi: North India is currently reeling under severe cold, dense fog, and a cold wave. According to the latest forecast from the India Meteorological Department (IMD), the next 24 to 48 hours will be crucial for the country's weather. The cold will intensify in North India, while rain and strong winds remain a threat in the South and coastal states.
Light rain or drizzle is expected in Delhi-NCR, Uttar Pradesh, Punjab, Haryana, Rajasthan, and Western Uttar Pradesh amid cloud cover. Dense to very dense fog may significantly reduce visibility, potentially disrupting road, rail, and air traffic. The minimum temperature in Delhi is expected to hover between 4 and 6 degrees Celsius, making nights even colder.
Cold wave and cold day-like conditions have been issued in Bihar, Jharkhand, Uttar Pradesh, West Bengal, Chhattisgarh, and Madhya Pradesh. Daytime temperatures are expected to remain well below normal in many areas. Fog in the morning and night may impact normal life.
Snowfall is expected to continue in the high altitude areas of Himachal Pradesh, Uttarakhand, Jammu and Kashmir, and Ladakh. Temperatures remain below freezing in the Kashmir Valley. The Chillakalan period has intensified the cold, leading to icy and slippery roads.
The Meteorological Department has warned that a deep depression is likely to form over the Bay of Bengal. Its impact could bring heavy rain and thunderstorms to Tamil Nadu. Coastal areas of Kerala, Karnataka, Telangana, and Andhra Pradesh are also expected to experience light to moderate rain and winds of up to 55–65 kmph. Fishermen have been advised not to venture into the sea.
Along with the cold, air pollution has also reached severe levels in Delhi-NCR. Fog and low wind speeds have caused the AQI to remain above 300, increasing the risk of respiratory problems.
The IMD has urged people to avoid unnecessary travel, wear warm clothing, and monitor the latest weather updates. Those living in hilly and coastal areas have been advised to exercise special caution.
