Key Takeaways
- Dense fog, rain, and snow to hit North India from January 19-21.
- Cold wave to severe cold wave conditions expected in Punjab, Haryana, Delhi, and north Rajasthan.
- Temperatures to drop by 2-4°C across northwest India over the next three days.
A fresh and intense spell of cold weather is set to grip North India, bringing dense fog, rain, and snowfall that has raised significant concerns. The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued warnings for multiple states over the next few days.
Fog and Cold Wave Alert
The IMD forecasts dense to very dense fog in the morning hours from January 19 to 21 across Punjab, Haryana, Chandigarh, Delhi, and Uttar Pradesh. During the next 24 hours, cold wave to severe cold wave conditions are very likely in some pockets of these regions, including north Rajasthan.
Rain and Snowfall Forecast
A western disturbance will trigger light to moderate rainfall and snowfall in the hills. Jammu & Kashmir, Ladakh, Gilgit-Baltistan, Muzaffarabad, and Himachal Pradesh will see this activity on January 19 and 20. Isolated heavy rainfall and snowfall is very likely over Jammu & Kashmir, Ladakh, Gilgit-Baltistan, and Muzaffarabad on January 19.
Light rainfall is also predicted at isolated places over Punjab, Haryana, Chandigarh, Delhi, and Uttar Pradesh on January 19 and 20.
Temperature Drop and Advisory
Minimum temperatures are likely to fall by 2-4°C over many parts of northwest India during the next three days. The IMD has advised the public to exercise caution while driving or commuting in foggy conditions and to stay warm to avoid cold-related illnesses.
