Delhi-NCR Shiver Under Cold Wave; IMD Predicts Rain Amid Dense Fog

On January 15, 2025, Delhi and nearby areas experienced unusually high minimum temperatures. The India Meteorological Department (IMD) predicted persistent fog and smog conditions. Residents of Delhi, Noida, and other regions in the National Capital Region (NCR) woke up to dense fog on Wednesday, which intensified the cold wave across northern India. This significantly reduced visibility and could potentially disrupt flights and trains.

Delhi's temperature was recorded at 10 degrees Celsius around 5:30 am on Wednesday. The IMD forecasted a minimum temperature of 9 degrees Celsius for the day, with a maximum expected to reach 19 degrees Celsius. Additionally, the weather department predicted a generally cloudy sky with light rain or drizzle for Delhi.

Weather Conditions and Visibility

The IMD reported that minimum temperatures are "appreciably above normal" by 3°C to 5°C in isolated areas over Delhi, Haryana, Chandigarh, and Uttar Pradesh. The predominant surface wind is expected to come from the southeast at less than 4 kmph during morning hours. Wind speed will increase to 6-8 kmph from the south in the afternoon before decreasing again in the evening.

Dense fog conditions were also observed on Tuesday, reducing visibility to zero and affecting train schedules. The weather office noted that many parts of Delhi experienced dense to very dense fog with visibility less than 50 metres. "Zero visibility has prevailed over Palam since 4:30 IST," it added.

Impact on Daily Life

Homeless individuals sought refuge in night shelters due to the cold weather in Delhi. They were seen sleeping under blankets provided at these shelters. Despite no significant change in minimum temperatures over northwest India during the day, IMD expects a gradual rise of 2-3 degrees Celsius over the next three days.

The IMD also forecasts dense to very dense fog during night and early morning hours in parts of West and East Uttar Pradesh. Dense fog is likely to persist in Haryana, Chandigarh, east and west Rajasthan until January 18, and in Punjab and UP until January 19.

Temperature Trends

Delhi recorded a maximum temperature of 21.2 degrees Celsius on Tuesday, which is slightly above normal by 1.3 degrees. The minimum temperature was noted at 8.9 degrees Celsius, also above normal by 1.5 degrees.

The IMD bulletin indicated no significant change in minimum temperatures across northwest India for the day but anticipated a gradual increase over subsequent days. Smog or shallow to moderate fog is expected during evening and night hours.

The ongoing weather conditions highlight the challenges faced by residents due to reduced visibility and cold temperatures. As forecasts predict continued foggy conditions, disruptions may persist for those relying on air or rail travel.