New Delhi, India — January 3, 2026
A severe cold wave accompanied by dense to very dense fog has tightened its grip over large parts of India, particularly North and Northwest India, significantly impacting daily life and transportation on Saturday, January 3, 2026, according to the India Meteorological Department (IMD).
North and Northwest India: Cold Wave and Dense Fog
Morning hours witnessed dense to very dense fog across Delhi-NCR, Uttar Pradesh, Punjab, Haryana, and Chandigarh, with visibility plunging to 10–25 meters in at least 19 districts. The sharp drop in visibility disrupted rail and flight operations, while road travel slowed considerably.
IMD has issued a cold wave alert for parts of Himachal Pradesh, Punjab, Haryana, and Delhi.
Delhi Weather Today:
Maximum Temperature: 17°C–19°C
Minimum Temperature: 6°C–8°C
Status: Yellow Alert issued due to cold wave and fog
In Rajasthan, temperatures in some areas are expected to fall below 5°C, intensifying winter conditions.
Central and Eastern India Weather Update
Madhya Pradesh: Northern districts are likely to experience persistent fog during morning hours.
Chhattisgarh: Light rainfall is possible in isolated regions.
Bihar and Jharkhand: Moderate fog continues in the mornings. IMD warns of Cold Day conditions developing in Bihar between January 4 and 5.
South India and Coastal Regions
Weather conditions across Kerala, Tamil Nadu, and Andhra Pradesh are expected to remain largely dry, with partly cloudy skies in some areas.
Sea Warning Issued
IMD has cautioned that strong winds may prevail over the Bay of Bengal and the Arabian Sea until January 7. Fishermen have been advised not to venture into the sea during this period.
Major Cities Temperature Outlook
New Delhi: 17°C / 8°C — Dense fog, cold wave
Lucknow: 17°C / 9°C — Drizzle, haze
Mumbai: 28°C / 18°C — Clear skies
Chennai: 29°C / 22°C — Partly cloudy
Advisory
Authorities advise commuters to use fog lights while driving, avoid unnecessary early-morning travel, and wear adequate warm clothing to protect against extreme cold. For official updates, citizens are encouraged to follow IMD advisories.
