Today’s Weather, January 16: Cold Wave Continues, Rain Alert in 6 North Indian States; Delhi Faces Severe Chill

New Delhi: Northern India continues to shiver under a biting cold wave and dense fog, with the India Meteorological Department (IMD) issuing warnings of severe cold over the next 2–3 days. Between January 16 and 21, light to moderate rain and snowfall is expected in Jammu & Kashmir, Himachal Pradesh, and Uttarakhand, while Delhi and six other northern states remain under a cold wave alert.

Cold and Fog Across North India
Delhi-NCR and many other parts of northern India are experiencing harsh winter conditions, compounded by fog and smog. The IMD has issued alerts for Himachal Pradesh, Punjab, Haryana, Delhi, Rajasthan, Jharkhand, and Odisha, forecasting sustained cold over the next few days, with temperatures gradually expected to rise thereafter.

Dense fog is likely to persist over northwest India and Bihar for the next 5–6 days. Cold day conditions are expected to continue in western Uttar Pradesh and Uttarakhand over the next two days.

Regional Outlook

• Delhi-NCR: Delhi experienced its coldest day this season on Thursday, with a minimum of 2.9°C and Palam recording 2.3°C—the lowest in 20 years. The cold wave is expected to continue on Friday, with scattered clouds possible in the evening. Air quality remains a concern, with AQI at 343 (‘Very Poor’ category).
• Uttar Pradesh: After a brief daytime respite from the cold, temperatures have dropped again. Light rain is possible in parts of the state on January 19–20, intensifying the chill.
• Uttarakhand: Rain and snowfall are expected in areas including Chamoli and Uttarkashi. Cold winds will persist in lowland districts such as Haridwar and Udham Singh Nagar due to ongoing cold day conditions.
• Jammu & Kashmir: Extreme cold has frozen parts of Dal Lake and other water bodies. A western disturbance moving into the region may affect the valley’s weather starting January 16.
• Rajasthan: Dense fog and cold wave conditions continue. Minor warming is expected over the next 48 hours due to a weak western disturbance on January 17–18, but another stronger system may impact the state between January 22–24.

City-Wise Temperature Forecast (January 16)

Residents are advised to take precautions against cold and fog, especially in northern and northwestern states, while keeping track of local forecasts for rainfall and snowfall.