Weather Update, 20 January 2026: Heavy Rain, Winds Up to 50 km/h Forecast in 9 States; Dense Fog Expected in North India

New Delhi: Amid severe cold conditions, the India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued an alert for heavy rain and strong winds in nine states from 22 to 25 January 2026. Northern states are also expected to experience a drop in temperatures, and dense fog in the mornings may disrupt travel. Uttar Pradesh, Himachal Pradesh, and several other states are likely to witness significant weather changes.

Heavy Rain and Strong Winds Across Nine States
The IMD has warned of moderate to heavy rainfall in Haryana, Uttarakhand, western and eastern Uttar Pradesh, Rajasthan, Himachal Pradesh, Punjab, Jammu & Kashmir, and Ladakh. Winds are expected to reach speeds of 40-50 km/h, causing further challenges. On 20 January, Himachal Pradesh may experience thunderstorms and rainfall, which could create travel difficulties. Between 22 and 24 January, the western Himalayan region is likely to see heavy rain and snowfall.

In Punjab, scattered to widespread light to moderate rain is expected from 22 to 25 January. Jammu & Kashmir and Ladakh may witness heavy rain and snowfall on 20, 21, and 23 January, accompanied by strong winds up to 50 km/h.

Delhi Weather Forecast
In Delhi, the morning temperature on 20 January is expected to be around 8°C, with pleasant sunshine in the afternoon. However, the city may experience light to moderate rainfall from 23 January, and residents are advised to remain cautious. Dense fog in the mornings is expected over the next 3–4 days. The cold wave has temporarily eased.

Uttar Pradesh Weather Forecast
In Uttar Pradesh, a cold wave warning has been issued for more than 10 cities, including Ayodhya, Kanpur, Lucknow, Bareilly, Barabanki, Agra, Mathura, Aligarh, Ghaziabad, and Meerut. Winds are expected to blow at 10–15 km/h in the morning. In Lucknow, the maximum temperature will reach 22°C, while the minimum will drop to 11°C. From 22 to 25 January, the state is likely to receive moderate to heavy rainfall, according to the IMD.

Residents are advised to take precautions during adverse weather conditions, especially while traveling in northern and northwestern states.