Delhi-NCR Shivers Amid Cold Wave and Dense Fog

Delhi-NCR experienced a severe cold wave, with minimum temperatures plummeting and dense fog disrupting normal life. The India Meteorological Department (IMD) issued warnings for very dense fog and cold wave conditions.

Temperature Plummets

On Thursday, January 15, 2026, Delhi-NCR woke up to its coldest January morning in three years. The minimum temperature in Delhi dipped to 2.9 degrees Celsius. Lodhi Road recorded a minimum temperature of 3.6°C. Gurugram experienced sub-zero-like conditions, with temperatures falling below 1 degree Celsius.

Red Alert for Dense Fog

The IMD issued a red alert for very dense fog in Delhi-NCR, cautioning that visibility could fall below 50 meters. The red alert warns against very low visibility and potential disruption to road, rail, and air traffic. Delhi's Indira Gandhi International Airport (IGI) issued an orange alert due to extremely low visibility. Several flights faced delays due to CAT III conditions.

Air Quality

The overall Air Quality Index (AQI) for Delhi was recorded at 356, placing it in the 'very poor' category. Monitoring stations across the city reported alarming pollution levels, with most areas reporting AQI values above 300.

Weather Forecast and Warnings

The IMD has forecast cold wave conditions to persist over Himachal Pradesh, Uttarakhand, Punjab, Haryana, Chandigarh, West Uttar Pradesh, Rajasthan, Chhattisgarh, Jharkhand, and Odisha for the next two days. A new Western Disturbance is expected to arrive, bringing heavy snowfall to the mountains of North India between January 15 and 30.

Conclusion

Delhi-NCR is experiencing a severe cold wave with very dense fog, leading to hazardous conditions and travel disruptions. Authorities have issued warnings and advisories, urging residents to take precautions.