Delhi Faces Severe Cold Wave, Residents Warned of Plummeting Temperatures for Next Two Days

Delhi and the National Capital Region (NCR) are experiencing a deep chill as temperatures continue to fall, prompting the Meteorological Department to issue warnings for the next two days. Residents are advised to take precautions as the cold wave intensifies.

The Safdarjung Observatory, the main weather monitoring center in Delhi, recorded the lowest temperature in three years at 3.2°C, which is 4°C below normal. The last time temperatures were this low was on 18 January 2023, when Safdarjung recorded 2.6°C. Lodhi Road was the coldest area in the city at 3°C, followed by Ayanagar in South-West Delhi at 3.2°C and Palam at 3.3°C.

According to the India Meteorological Department (IMD), the cold wave is expected to continue until Wednesday, after which relief is likely as a weak western disturbance affects the region. The IMD has issued an Orange Alert for Tuesday, signaling the possibility of frost and light to dense fog, and a Yellow Alert for Wednesday, cautioning residents to remain careful.

A cold wave is defined when the minimum temperature falls 10°C below normal or drops by 4.5°C or more, and it is officially declared when the minimum temperature falls below 4°C. Despite the cold nights, Delhi recorded a maximum temperature of 20.6°C on Monday, slightly above normal, due to bright sunshine during the day. Meteorologists explained that cold winds from the western Himalayas combined with clear skies contributed to the sharp drop in night temperatures.

Forecast Ahead

Delhi continues to experience cold westerly winds, but a weak western disturbance is expected to shift winds from the east by Thursday, bringing gradual warming. The IMD forecasts minimum temperatures could rise to 3–5°C by Thursday and reach 8–10°C by Saturday.

Historically, Safdarjung recorded its lowest January minimum of 1.1°C on 1 January 2021, while the all-time lowest temperature of −0.6°C was recorded on 16 January 1935.

Residents are advised to bundle up, avoid prolonged exposure to cold, and take necessary precautions, especially during early mornings and late nights.