Delhi experienced its first cold day of 2026 as maximum temperatures dipped significantly below normal, accompanied by dense fog and icy winds. The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued a cold wave warning across 13 states, including Rajasthan, Punjab, Haryana, and Uttar Pradesh, urging caution as severe winter conditions disrupt daily life.
The chill of winter has firmly set in across North India, with Delhi recording its first cold day of the year on January 6, 2026. According to the India Meteorological Department (IMD), cold day conditions are declared when maximum temperatures fall 4.5°C to 6.4°C below normal.
Dense fog blanketed the capital, reducing visibility to as low as 250 metres at IGI Airport, impacting air and road traffic. The IMD has also forecast light rainfall and snowfall in Jammu & Kashmir, Himachal Pradesh, and Uttarakhand, intensifying the cold spell in the plains.
A cold wave warning has been issued for 13 states, including Rajasthan, Punjab, Haryana, Uttar Pradesh, Bihar, Jharkhand, and West Bengal. Schools in several regions have been affected, with closures and delayed timings reported.
Notable Updates and Major Takeaways
Delhi’s first cold day: Maximum temperature dipped sharply below seasonal average.
Visibility concerns: Fog reduced visibility to 250 metres at IGI Airport.
Cold wave warning: Issued for 13 states across North and East India.
Hill states: Snowfall predicted in J&K, Himachal Pradesh, and Uttarakhand.
Public impact: Travel disruptions, school closures, and health advisories in place.
Conclusion
The onset of severe winter conditions highlights the need for preparedness and caution. With cold wave warnings across multiple states, residents are advised to stay warm, limit outdoor exposure, and follow IMD advisories closely.
Sources: Business Standard, Asianet Newsable, Mathrubhumi English