Full Breakdown
Severe Cold Wave and Dense Fog Disrupt Northern India
1/16/2026, 7:02:05 AM
Current Weather Conditions
A severe cold wave has enveloped northern India, with temperatures nearing zero degrees Celsius in several states. On January 15, 2023, Delhi recorded its coldest morning of the winter at 2.9°C, while areas in Haryana experienced temperatures dropping below 1°C. This cold spell has persisted for four days and is expected to continue until January 16, according to the India Meteorological Department (IMD). The IMD has issued alerts for cold wave conditions across Delhi, Punjab, Haryana, and parts of Rajasthan, with warnings of dense fog significantly reducing visibility in the region.
Impact on Transportation
The cold wave and dense fog have severely disrupted transportation networks. At Indira Gandhi International Airport in Delhi, visibility has dropped to dangerously low levels, prompting delays and cancellations of flights. The IMD issued a 'yellow' weather alert for the Delhi-NCR region due to the fog, which has also slowed road traffic. The dense fog is expected to persist, with the IMD warning of "very dense fog" conditions likely to continue through the morning hours.
Challenges for Railways
The Indian Railways faces significant challenges due to the fog, with trains often delayed by six to twelve hours. Unlike aviation, railways operate on fixed tracks, making it difficult to manage traffic during low visibility. The Railways have deployed Fog Safety Devices (FSDs) to assist locomotive pilots in navigating fog-prone areas. These devices provide alerts about signals and level crossings, but the operational impact remains substantial.
Official Statements & Responses
The IMD has reported that cold wave conditions are expected to ease slightly after midweek, although foggy mornings will continue. Weather experts note that while temperatures may rise gradually, the persistent fog will remain a concern for commuters and travelers across northern India.
Criticism & Opposition
Critics have pointed out that the infrastructure in many northern Indian states is not adequately equipped to handle such severe winter conditions. Most homes lack central heating, exacerbating the impact of the cold wave on vulnerable populations, including children and the elderly. Additionally, the combination of cold weather and poor air quality poses health risks, particularly for those with pre-existing conditions.
Conflicting Reports & Gaps
While the IMD has issued warnings for cold wave conditions, there are discrepancies in the reported temperatures across different states. Some reports indicate that temperatures in Haryana have fallen below 1°C, while others suggest slightly higher readings. Furthermore, the extent of the impact on transportation varies, with some sources indicating significant delays while others report only minor disruptions.
What's Next
As the cold wave continues, the IMD anticipates a gradual improvement in temperatures after January 16. However, the ongoing fog is expected to persist, affecting visibility and transportation. The situation remains dynamic, with weather patterns closely monitored for any changes that may further impact northern India.
