Delhi Gripped by Intense Cold Wave, Dense Fog to Persist for Two More Days: IMD

Delhi continues to reel under harsh winter conditions as a severe cold wave and dense fog enveloped the national capital on Wednesday, pushing temperatures sharply downward and disrupting daily routines. According to the India Meteorological Department (IMD), cold wave to severe cold wave conditions are expected to persist over Delhi for at least two to three more days before showing signs of gradual relief.

The city woke up to another biting cold morning, with the minimum temperature dipping to around 5 degrees Celsius, significantly below the seasonal average. Dense fog covered large parts of the capital during early morning hours, reducing visibility and raising concerns over road and air travel safety.

Cold Wave Alert Continues

The IMD has issued a continued cold wave alert for Delhi, warning residents to brace for prolonged exposure to low temperatures. In its latest bulletin, the weather agency stated that cold wave to severe cold wave conditions are very likely to prevail in many parts of the city on January 14 and 15, with isolated pockets continuing to experience cold wave conditions on January 16.

For Wednesday, the IMD forecast indicated cold wave conditions at a few locations, accompanied by shallow to moderate fog during morning hours. Meteorologists noted that the minimum temperatures are expected to remain appreciably below normal across several areas of the capital.

Temperature Outlook

As per IMD estimates, Delhi’s maximum temperatures are likely to hover between 19°C and 21°C, while minimum temperatures may range between 3°C and 5°C over the next couple of days. Officials said that minimum temperatures could fall 3 to 5 degrees below normal at many places, intensifying the chill factor, especially during early mornings and late nights.

The weather department also clarified that while daytime temperatures may remain near normal, the persistent cold nights and early mornings are likely to cause discomfort for residents, particularly vulnerable groups such as children, senior citizens, and those exposed to outdoor conditions.

Health Advisory Issued

In view of the prolonged cold spell, the IMD has issued a health advisory cautioning people about increased risks of seasonal illnesses. Prolonged exposure to cold weather can lead to ailments such as flu, sore throat, running or blocked nose, and other respiratory issues.

Medical experts have advised residents to take adequate precautions, including wearing warm clothing, limiting exposure to cold winds, and maintaining proper hydration. Authorities have also urged people to take special care of the homeless and economically weaker sections during the ongoing cold wave.

Dense Fog Reduces Visibility

Adding to the winter woes, dense to very dense fog conditions have been reported across several parts of Delhi. According to the IMD, visibility in some areas dropped below 50 meters during the early morning hours, severely impacting road visibility.

The weather agency has warned that dense fog conditions are very likely to continue in some parts of the capital till January 15. Additionally, isolated pockets may continue to experience reduced visibility, ranging between 50 and 200 meters, till around January 20.

Traffic authorities have urged motorists to exercise caution while driving, maintain safe distances, and use fog lights during early morning and late-night hours.

Impact on Flight Operations

Despite the challenging weather conditions, flight operations at Delhi’s Indira Gandhi International Airport remained largely normal on Wednesday morning. Airport authorities confirmed that Low Visibility Procedures were in place as a precautionary measure.

In an official update, the Delhi airport stated that all flight operations were functioning normally, although passengers were advised to stay in touch with airlines for any schedule changes due to evolving weather conditions. Aviation experts noted that dense fog remains a potential risk factor and could lead to delays if conditions worsen.

Cold Wave Across North India

The cold wave is not limited to Delhi alone. The IMD has forecast similar cold wave to severe cold wave conditions across several northern and eastern states, including Himachal Pradesh, Punjab, Haryana, Rajasthan, Jharkhand, and Odisha over the next two to three days.

Very dense fog is expected over parts of Haryana, Punjab, and Chandigarh till January 15, with dense fog likely to persist thereafter till January 20. Northwest India and parts of Bihar are also expected to witness dense fog conditions over the next five to six days.

Authorities on Alert

Civic agencies and state authorities remain on alert as the cold spell continues. Night shelters have been activated, and emergency services are monitoring vulnerable populations to ensure safety during extreme weather conditions.

Officials have urged residents to remain cautious, follow advisories issued by authorities, and avoid unnecessary outdoor exposure during early morning and late-night hours.

Outlook for the Coming Days

While the IMD expects the intensity of the cold wave to gradually reduce after the next two to three days, weather experts have cautioned that winter conditions may remain harsh intermittently through the rest of January.

Residents are advised to stay updated with official weather bulletins and take necessary precautions as Delhi navigates one of its coldest phases of the winter season.