Delhi NCR Weather Alert: Cold Wave And Dense Fog To Persist Till January 10

The India Meteorological Department has issued alerts for a sustained cold wave and dense to very dense fog across Delhi-NCR through January 10, with visibility drops in morning and night hours and a further dip in minimum temperatures expected across the region. Yellow to orange alerts have been active since the New Year period, reflecting the continued risk of disrupted transport and health stress for vulnerable groups.

Early-morning visibility has repeatedly fallen below safe thresholds at key locations, prompting advisories for delayed travel, staggered school timings, and precautionary measures for commuters. The IMD has flagged intermittent cloud cover and light drizzle possibilities that could briefly improve daytime visibility but keep nights and early mornings persistently foggy. Flights and trains faced cancellations and delays this week due to low visibility bands, compounding peak travel season pressures.

Minimum temperatures are likely to hover around 6–9°C at core stations, with wind chill intensifying the felt cold during morning hours; day temperatures may remain capped below seasonal averages under fog-locked skies. IMD guidance indicates that pockets of the NCR may experience cold wave conditions, particularly where minimums settle near single digits alongside high humidity and calm winds that favor fog formation.

Air quality has fluctuated between very poor and severe tiers, with stagnant conditions under fog trapping pollutants closer to the surface. Authorities have advised masking for sensitive groups, reduced outdoor exertion during peak morning hours, and vigilant driving practices with low-beam lights and increased braking distance. The urban forecast also suggests brief spells of light rain on select days, but not enough to decisively disperse fog or lift AQI to safe levels.

Key Highlights

• Yellow to orange alerts across Delhi-NCR, with cold wave and dense fog risks flagged through January 10
• Transport disruptions: flight cancellations and train delays amid repeated low-visibility events
• Minimum temperatures 6–9°C, with colder pockets and wind-chill intensification in early mornings
• Intermittent cloud cover and drizzle possible; nights and mornings remain high-risk for fog
• Air quality trapped under fog layers; health advisories for sensitive groups remain in force

Sources: India Today; The Economic Times; Times Now; Outlook India