Winter Tightens Its Grip Across North India

Weather Today: Winter conditions have intensified across North India, with sharp temperature drops, dense fog, and cold wave conditions reported in several regions. The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has warned of snowfall and fog affecting areas including Delhi, Noida, Gurgaon, Jammu & Kashmir, Himachal Pradesh, and Uttarakhand over the next few days.

Delhi Records Below-Normal Temperatures

Cold Wave Likely to Continue Till January 6

Delhi experienced below-average daytime temperatures, with the maximum reaching 17.3°C, which is around two degrees lower than normal, according to IMD data. The minimum temperature settled at 7.4°C, slightly above the seasonal average.

Several areas in the national capital reported varying minimum temperatures:

• Ridge: 8.9°C

• Lodhi Road: 7.6°C

• Safdarjung: 7.4°C

• Palam: 6.8°C

• Ayanagar: 6.6°C

IMD has forecast that cold wave conditions may persist in isolated parts of Delhi until January 6.

Air Quality in Delhi Remains a Serious Concern

Delhi’s air quality continues to remain “very poor”, with the Air Quality Index (AQI) recorded at 307, as per data from the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB).

The relative humidity level stood at 73 percent, contributing to haze and discomfort.

Dense Fog and Severe Cold in Rajasthan

Fatehpur Records Lowest Temperature

Several districts in Rajasthan witnessed moderate to dense fog during the morning hours. Fatehpur in Sikar district emerged as the coldest location, recording a minimum temperature of 1.1°C.

Other notable minimum temperatures included:

• Sirohi, Pali, Churu: 4.4°C

• Vanasthali: 4°C

• Lunkaransar: 2.8°C

• Sikar: 2.5°C

• Jaipur: 8.8°C

IMD reported cold wave conditions at isolated places in eastern Rajasthan.

Sub-Zero Temperatures Continue in Kashmir

Chilla-e-Kalan Brings Harsh Cold

Kashmir Valley remains under intense cold during Chilla-e-Kalan, the region’s harshest winter phase. Srinagar recorded a minimum temperature of –3.2°C, marking a further dip from the previous night.

Gulmarg, a popular ski destination, remained the coldest spot with temperatures plunging to –6.5°C, while Pahalgam recorded –5°C.

Other areas reported freezing conditions:

• Qazigund: –4°C

• Kupwara: –2.5°C

• Kokernag: –1.6°C

Snowfall Likely in Higher Reaches of Northern States

The IMD has predicted light rain or snowfall in higher areas of Kashmir and Himachal Pradesh on January 5 and 6.

Uttarakhand may also receive isolated rain or snow on January 6, along with the possibility of ground frost in some regions.

Temperature Outlook for Rest of India

According to the weather office:

• Central and East India may see a 2–4°C drop in minimum temperatures over the next three days.

• Gujarat is expected to experience a gradual rise in night temperatures over the next five days.

• No major temperature changes are forecast for the remaining parts of the country.