New Delhi | January 19, 2026
A severe cold wave continues to sweep across most parts of North India, with the India Meteorological Department (IMD) reporting dense fog, plummeting temperatures, and widespread disruption to daily life. Several states remain under orange alerts as winter conditions intensify.
This morning, Delhi and the NCR witnessed moderate to dense fog, significantly reducing visibility on major roads. The minimum temperature is expected to range between 6°C and 8°C, while the maximum may settle between 18°C and 20°C.
In Punjab and Haryana, cold conditions are far more intense. Many locations are experiencing cold day to severe cold day conditions, with IMD predicting the cold wave to persist for the next 2–3 days. Northern districts of Rajasthan, including Churu and Bikaner, recorded a sharp drop in temperatures, accompanied by warnings of dense fog and cold wave conditions in parts of western Rajasthan.
Across Uttar Pradesh, a thick layer of fog extended from western to eastern regions. Cities such as Lucknow and Kanpur reported a minimum temperature near 9°C. The IMD has issued a “very dense fog” alert for the next 48 hours, cautioning travelers and residents.
Cold conditions continue in Bihar, where Patna and surrounding districts reported temperatures significantly lower than normal, creating cold day–like conditions across several regions.
In the Himalayan belt, fresh snowfall has increased the chill factor. Srinagar recorded temperatures as low as -4°C, while popular hill destinations such as Gulmarg and Pahalgam reported temperatures between -8°C and -6°C. Higher altitudes in Himachal Pradesh and Uttarakhand may see light snowfall, while lower regions could receive rain. Parts of the Uttarakhand plains may witness ground frost, raising concerns among farmers about potential crop damage.
Dense fog has caused delays to numerous trains across North India, and flight operations may also be affected. Authorities have urged commuters to exercise caution and use fog lights while traveling by road.
