Northern India is preparing for continued severe winter weather, with dense fog and a persistent cold wave expected to affect daily life and travel across the region. The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued warnings as temperatures plunge well below seasonal averages, especially in the northern plains, and widespread dense to very dense fog is forecast in states including Punjab, Haryana, Delhi, Uttar Pradesh and Rajasthan through the coming days.
The dense fog is significantly reducing visibility on roads and highways, creating hazardous driving conditions and contributing to delays and disruptions in rail and air travel. Major airports have already reported slowdowns and flight delays in recent days, and commuters are being advised to plan extra travel time and exercise caution.
Alongside the fog, cold wave conditions — with bitter early-morning temperatures — persist over large parts of northern India. The cold spell has intensified after a fresh western disturbance moved across the Himalayas, bringing rain and snowfall to higher altitude regions such as Jammu & Kashmir, Himachal Pradesh and Uttarakhand. Roads in hilly areas remain treacherous with snow accumulation, leading to closures and travel disruptions.
The severe winter weather is also impacting everyday life: lower footfall in public places, increased demand for heating and warmer clothing, and health advisories urging residents to take precautions against cold-related illnesses. Officials continue to monitor conditions closely, with forecasts indicating that fog and cold wave conditions may persist through the end of the month, potentially causing further disruptions to transport and outdoor activities news as reported.
