Dense Fog Disrupts Trains and Flights in Delhi, Bitterly Cold Winds to Continue

New Delhi:
Severe cold and dense fog have wreaked havoc in Delhi and North India, disrupting daily life and transport networks. On Monday, around 19 trains arriving in Delhi were delayed, with some running 2 to 10 hours behind schedule. Long-distance trains faced the worst delays—Train 22425 from Ayodhya Cantt arrived nearly 10 hours late, while Train 12419 from Lucknow was delayed by 5 hours. Rajdhani Express 12453 reached the capital about 8 hours late. Ghaziyabad also reported multiple train delays.

Flights Affected

Air travel was equally impacted due to low visibility. 14 flights were canceled, including 6 departures from Delhi and 8 incoming flights. Among these, one international flight each in departures and arrivals was affected. Most cancellations occurred before 8 AM, when visibility at Palam Airport dropped to just 150 meters. However, as the day progressed, sunlight emerged, visibility improved, and fewer flights were canceled, though many remained delayed.

Relief Amid Cold

Despite the morning chill and shivering cold, sunlight in the afternoon provided temporary relief. The maximum temperature rose above 20°C. However, strong icy winds are expected to persist for the next two days, causing further temperature drops.

Weather Details

On Monday, maximum temperature in Delhi was 21.8°C, slightly above normal, while the minimum temperature was 11°C. Visibility ranged between 100 to 300 meters during the dense fog, and humidity levels were between 66% to 100%.

The India Meteorological Department (IMD) forecasts clear skies on Tuesday, with light to moderate fog in the morning and ground-level winds blowing at 15–25 km/h. The maximum temperature is expected to reach 22°C, and the minimum temperature may drop to 10°C. On 24 December, strong winds are likely to continue, with temperatures ranging 18–20°C (max) and 8–10°C (min). From 25–28 December, skies are expected to remain clear, with morning fog persisting moderately.