Delhi NCR Weather Update: Cold wave grips national capital after rain; dense fog, colder nights ahead

After Friday’s rains briefly improved air quality and reduced daytime temperatures, Delhi-NCR is preparing for a new cold wave that will last throughout the weekend, starting from Saturday. Nights are expected to cool sharply and dense fog is expected to return in the early morning and late at night.

IMD forecasts show that minimum temperatures may drop by 5-6 degrees Celsius in the next three days, creating a noticeable chill in Delhi and surrounding areas. While overnight temperatures may initially hover near normal levels, maximum temperatures are expected to remain below normal for several days until January 29, keeping afternoons unusually cool.

The rain that reduced visibility in the morning hours of Friday marked the beginning of this transition. Meteorologists said that the moisture left behind by the rain will contribute to fog formation.

According to the India Meteorological Department (IMD), the complex combination of weather systems in Northern Pakistan and the Western Himalayan region is driving the change. A well-marked low pressure area and its associated cyclonic circulation, coupled with a strong subtropical westerly jet stream over northern India, is expected to draw cooler air into the plains.

Fog, clouds and high winds

The sky over Delhi-NCR is expected to remain generally cloudy from Saturday and shallow to moderate fog is expected to occur over the next six days.

While light rain or short-term storms cannot be ruled out at night or in the morning, surface winds of 20-30 km per hour can increase the impact of winter.

The IMD has also flagged a fresh western disturbance from Monday that could extend the impact of cold and unstable weather over northwestern India, including Haryana, western Uttar Pradesh and Rajasthan.

What to expect next?

Due to rising temperatures after the rains and the fog possibly intensifying, authorities warned passengers about possible disruptions in road, rail and flight operations, especially in the early morning hours. The national weather agency also said that the changing weather pattern indicates that winter is not yet over in Delhi-NCR and residents should prepare for colder mornings and low visibility conditions as we approach the end of January.

Himachal, J&K sees fresh snowfall

Meanwhile, the Western Himalayan region is expected to bear the brunt of active weather conditions. Hill towns like Shimla and Manali witnessed fresh snowfall on Friday; This precipitation is expected to continue throughout the weekend, especially in higher elevations, and temperatures are expected to fall close to or below freezing point.

IMD also predicts widespread rain and snowfall in Jammu and Kashmir, increasing the risk of travel disruptions, temporary road closures and reduced visibility in mountainous areas.