As 2026 begins, harsh winter conditions tighten their grip on North India. Dense fog, biting cold, and rain alerts from IMD signal travel disruptions and daily challenges ahead.
IMD Weather Update January 2026: Cold Wave and Fog Intensify
The new year has opened with extreme winter conditions across several Indian states. Dense fog and severe cold have already started affecting daily routines. Moreover, the India Meteorological Department (IMD) warns that the first week of January may remain challenging for millions.
According to IMD, North India will continue to face cold wave conditions, low visibility due to fog, and intermittent rainfall. As a result, transport, agriculture, and local businesses could feel the pressure during peak winter days.
Delhi-NCR Weather Forecast: Fog to Disrupt Travel
Delhi-NCR remains under close watch as dense fog blankets the region during night and morning hours. The minimum temperature is expected to hover between 7°C and 9°C. Meanwhile, cold wave conditions may persist until January 5.
Due to poor visibility, flight delays and train disruptions are likely. Therefore, commuters and logistics operators should plan schedules carefully to avoid last-minute setbacks.
Uttar Pradesh and Bihar: Yellow Alert Issued
In contrast to Delhi’s urban disruptions, eastern Uttar Pradesh and Bihar face a different challenge. IMD has issued a yellow alert for dense fog in these regions.
Additionally, cold-day conditions may affect rural livelihoods, especially early-morning agricultural activities. As a result, farmers and transporters should remain cautious during peak fog hours.
Rain and Snowfall Alert in Hill States
IMD predicts light to moderate rainfall and snowfall across Jammu and Kashmir, Ladakh, Gilgit-Baltistan, Muzaffarabad, Himachal Pradesh, and Uttarakhand on January 2.
Moreover, thunderstorms may occur in isolated areas. Dense fog and cold-day conditions will continue in Himachal Pradesh until January 5, potentially affecting tourism and road connectivity.
Dense Fog Warning: State-wise Timeline
The fog situation remains widespread and persistent across multiple states. IMD highlights that visibility may drop sharply during late-night and early-morning hours.
Dense fog is likely in Punjab, Haryana, Chandigarh, and Delhi until January 6. Meanwhile, similar conditions may continue in Odisha until January 5 and in Bihar and eastern Uttar Pradesh until January 2.
On the other hand, parts of Rajasthan may see dense fog until January 3, while Madhya Pradesh and Chhattisgarh could experience it until January 3 as well. Fog may also return to Punjab, Haryana, Chandigarh, and Delhi between January 7 and 8.
Business and Daily Life Impact: What to Expect
Severe winter conditions often ripple beyond weather headlines. Logistics delays, supply chain slowdowns, and reduced workforce mobility can affect local businesses. Therefore, companies dependent on transportation, agriculture, and tourism should prepare contingency plans.
Meanwhile, residents are advised to follow IMD advisories, avoid unnecessary travel during fog hours, and take precautions against extreme cold.
IMD Weather Alert Overview
| Region | Weather Alert |
|---|---|
| Delhi-NCR | Dense fog, cold wave till Jan 5 |
| Uttar Pradesh & Bihar | Yellow alert for dense fog |
| Punjab, Haryana, Chandigarh | Dense fog till Jan 6 |
| Himachal Pradesh | Fog and cold-day conditions till Jan 5 |
| J&K, Ladakh, Uttarakhand | Rain and snowfall on Jan 2 |
FAQs: Winter Weather Alert January 2026
| Question | Answer |
|---|---|
| How long will the cold wave last in North India? | IMD expects severe cold and fog to persist through the first week of January. |
| Will fog affect flights and trains? | Yes, dense fog may cause delays, especially in Delhi-NCR and nearby states. |
| Which states will receive rain or snowfall? | Jammu and Kashmir, Ladakh, Himachal Pradesh, and Uttarakhand are likely to see rain or snow. |
| Is there any alert for Uttar Pradesh? | IMD has issued a yellow alert for dense fog in eastern Uttar Pradesh. |
