New Delhi, India — January 23, 2026
The weather pattern across Delhi and the National Capital Region changed abruptly on Friday morning as light drizzle, gusty winds, and thunderstorm activity swept through the region, including Noida and nearby areas.
According to the India Meteorological Department (IMD), the ongoing weather disturbance is likely to bring a noticeable dip in temperatures, signaling a return of winter-like conditions over the next few days.
🌬️ Rain, Thunder, and Strong Winds Across NCR
Residents across Delhi-NCR experienced intermittent drizzle accompanied by thunder and strong winds on Friday. The IMD has issued a warning for thundershowers with gusty winds, stating that wind speeds could reach 40–50 kmph in some areas.
These weather conditions are expected to persist intermittently for the next couple of days, impacting both daytime warmth and nighttime chill.
🌡️ Temperature Likely to Fall Sharply
Following the rainfall, daytime temperatures are expected to drop to around 19–21°C, while minimum temperatures may fall to 6–8°C, according to IMD forecasts. As a result, colder mornings and nights are expected to return, increasing the feeling of chill across the region.
❄️ Why Did the Weather Suddenly Change?
Meteorologists attribute the sudden shift to a strong and active western disturbance currently influencing northern India. While January is traditionally the coldest month, Delhi-NCR had recently experienced unusually warm days due to atmospheric conditions limiting cloud formation and rainfall.
The active western disturbance has now altered that pattern, bringing moisture, clouds, rainfall, and wind to the plains.
🌤️ January Felt Like May—Here’s Why
Weather data shows that over the past two days, temperatures in Delhi-NCR were recorded nearly 7°C above normal. While nighttime temperatures hovered around 8–9°C, daytime temperatures climbed as high as 25°C, giving residents an unusual early-summer feel in the middle of winter.
However, meteorologists caution that this was only a temporary phase.
🔍 What Caused the Unusual Warmth?
The unseasonal warmth was primarily due to a weak western disturbance that remained confined to the Himalayan region and failed to significantly impact the plains. With fewer clouds and largely clear skies, sunlight directly heated the ground during the day.
Additionally, an anti-cyclonic circulation over the plains blocked cold northerly winds. Low moisture levels in the air also prevented dense fog formation, further contributing to warmer daytime conditions.
📌 What Lies Ahead
With the western disturbance now fully active, weather experts say winter conditions are expected to intensify once again. Residents are advised to stay alert for changing weather, especially during early morning and late evening hours.
