Heavy Rain Alert: Dense Fog Warning Issued, Severe Cold to Intensify; IMD Alerts Several States
National Desk: On the very first day of the New Year, weather conditions across India turned active. Due to the impact of a Western Disturbance, rainfall was recorded in several parts of North India, including Delhi-NCR. The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has forecast heavy rain over the next 48 hours and snowfall in higher Himalayan regions.
Snowfall in the Hills Deepens the Chill in Delhi
As Kashmir observes Chillai-Kalan—the harsh 40-day peak winter period—the New Year began with fresh snowfall across the valley. Popular tourist destinations such as Gulmarg, Pahalgam, and Sonamarg witnessed fresh snow.
In Delhi, light rain accompanied by cloudy skies led to a sharp dip in temperatures. On Thursday, the maximum temperature fell to 14.2°C, about 6°C below normal, marking one of the coldest late December–early January spells in the past six years.
Unseasonal Rain Surprises Mumbai
Mumbai, which typically remains dry in January, saw an unexpected spell of rain on New Year’s morning. The showers began before 6 a.m. and drenched several parts of the financial capital, bringing down temperatures and surprising residents.
IMD Issues Fog Alert for the Next 7 Days
- Dense to Very Dense Fog: Punjab, Haryana, Delhi, Uttar Pradesh, and Bihar are likely to witness dense to very dense fog for the next 5 to 7 days.
- Cold Wave: Delhi-NCR, Punjab, and Haryana may experience intensified cold wave conditions between January 3 and 5. Rajasthan is expected to face cold wave conditions from January 4 to 7.
- Cold Day Conditions: Bihar may continue to experience severe cold day conditions between January 1 and 3.
