Story perspectives

North India Faces Cold Wave, Fog Disrupting Travel

1/2/2026

Summary

Story summary

Dense fog and cold wave will persist in North India, disrupting travel and agriculture.
The India Meteorological Department (IMD) forecasts fog in Jammu, Himachal Pradesh, and Delhi until January 8, with minimum temperatures 2–4°C below normal.
Cold wave conditions will affect Punjab, Haryana, and Uttar Pradesh.
Despite these conditions, India's rabi crop sowing has risen by over 687,000 hectares year over year, with higher acreage in wheat, rice, and pulses.

History

Historical Context

In June 2013, North India faced catastrophic floods due to unprecedented monsoon rains, particularly affecting Uttarakhand, where over 6,000 people died. The India Meteorological Department recorded rainfall at 375% above normal levels, exacerbating existing vulnerabilities. Today’s cold wave and fog conditions echo the challenges faced by farmers in states like Himachal Pradesh and Uttar Pradesh, impacting rabi crop production significantly.

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Story summary

Dense fog and cold wave will persist in North India, disrupting travel and agriculture.
The India Meteorological Department (IMD) forecasts fog in Jammu, Himachal Pradesh, and Delhi until January 8, with minimum temperatures 2–4°C below normal.
Cold wave conditions will affect Punjab, Haryana, and Uttar Pradesh.
Despite these conditions, India's rabi crop sowing has risen by over 687,000 hectares year over year, with higher acreage in wheat, rice, and pulses.

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