Cold Wave Days Likely to Increase in Delhi; Winters Set to Bite Hard

Delhi and much of northern and central India are expected to face harsher-than-usual winter conditions this season. According to Dr. Mrityunjay Mahapatra, Director General of the India Meteorological Department (IMD), the cold wave has arrived earlier this year, and temperatures are likely to remain below normal across most parts of the country.

Colder Days Ahead

Around 90% of India is expected to experience maximum temperatures that are normal or lower than average, meaning daytime temperatures will feel colder than usual. However, in some northwestern, northeastern, and Himalayan foothill regions, daytime temperatures may remain normal or slightly above normal.

Minimum temperatures in central India, adjoining peninsular regions, and northwestern states are expected to be below normal. Night temperatures across other parts of the country may remain normal or slightly higher.

Early Onset of Cold Waves

The IMD noted that cold wave conditions occurred earlier than usual this year. Between 8–18 November, northeastern Rajasthan, southern Haryana, northern Madhya Pradesh, southern Uttar Pradesh, and northern Chhattisgarh experienced cold wave conditions. Northern Maharashtra saw similar conditions between 15–20 November.

Looking ahead, cold wave conditions are expected in northwestern and central India between 3–5 December. For December, northwestern, central, and northeastern regions are forecast to experience more prolonged cold waves, while minimum temperatures in most parts of central, peninsular, and northwestern India are likely to remain below normal.

Residents are advised to take necessary precautions as the winter season sets in, with colder days and potentially longer spells of chill expected this year.