Dense Fog and Cold Wave Alert Across North India; Rain and Snowfall Warning in Several States

New Delhi: Severe cold conditions have tightened their grip over Delhi and large parts of North India, prompting the India Meteorological Department (IMD) to issue an alert for dense to very dense fog and cold wave conditions from December 18 to 22. The weather system is expected to significantly impact road, rail, and air traffic due to poor visibility, especially during early morning and late-night hours.

According to the IMD, states including Uttar Pradesh, Punjab, Haryana, and Uttarakhand are likely to witness extremely low visibility during dawn and early morning hours. Authorities have advised commuters to exercise caution as transport disruptions are likely.

Cold Wave Warning and Mountain Weather

The IMD has forecast a strong possibility of cold wave conditions on December 18 and 19 in western Madhya Pradesh and Uttarakhand. Meanwhile, Jammu & Kashmir, Ladakh, Himachal Pradesh, and Uttarakhand are expected to receive rainfall and snowfall between December 18 and 23. Light rain is also likely in Punjab on December 20 and 21.

Weather Outlook for Delhi-NCR

Delhi and adjoining areas are expected to experience light to moderate fog between December 17 and 20. Day temperatures may range between 22–25°C, while minimum temperatures could hover around 8–10°C. Reduced visibility during morning hours may affect traffic movement.

Air quality in the capital remains a concern. With wind speeds expected to weaken over the next few days, the Air Quality Index (AQI) may once again cross the 400 mark, entering the severe category. Although recent stronger winds have brought marginal relief, pollution levels continue to remain unhealthy for breathing.

State-wise Weather Highlights

Uttar Pradesh:
The state continues to face intense cold along with dense to extremely dense fog. The IMD has issued alerts for several districts, including Kushinagar, Maharajganj, Siddharthnagar, Balrampur, Shravasti, Bahraich, Lakhimpur Kheri, Sitapur, Bijnor, Moradabad, Rampur, Bareilly, Pilibhit, and Shahjahanpur, where cold day conditions have been warned.

Uttarakhand:
While plains such as Haridwar and Udham Singh Nagar remain under a yellow alert for dense fog, the hill regions may witness rain and snowfall from Saturday onwards. Temperatures in higher altitudes continue to remain extremely low.

Bihar:
A “double impact” of weather systems is expected in Bihar, with cold wave and dense fog coupled with a western disturbance likely to bring rainfall. The disturbance has increased icy winds from the Himalayan region, leading to a sharp drop in night temperatures.

Jharkhand:
Cold conditions have intensified due to north-westerly winds. No major temperature change is expected over the next five days. In Ranchi, moderate fog is likely in the morning, clearing later in the day. The minimum temperature is expected to remain around 8°C, while the maximum may reach 23°C.

Temperatures Across Major Cities (December 18)

City	Max Temp	Min Temp
Delhi	24°C	08°C
Mumbai	31°C	23°C
Kolkata	27°C	18°C
Chennai	28°C	22°C
Lucknow	23°C	10°C
Patna	24°C	13°C
Ranchi	22°C	09°C
Jaipur	27°C	12°C
Bhopal	26°C	09°C
Manali	07°C	-05°C
Nainital	19°C	07°C

Advisory

The IMD has advised citizens, especially the elderly, children, and those with respiratory ailments, to take precautions against extreme cold and poor air quality. Travelers are urged to stay updated on weather advisories as fog and cold wave conditions may continue to disrupt daily life across North India.