Delhi Freezes at 3.2°C: ‘Poor’ AQI, Dense Fog Alert Issued as Cold Wave Tightens Grip on North India — 7 Key Updates
Delhi reels at 3.2°C as a severe cold wave grips North India. AQI remains ‘poor’ while IMD issues dense fog warnings for the next 48 hours. Key updates inside
Delhi and large parts of North India are battling one of the harshest winter spells of the season, with the national capital recording a bone-chilling minimum temperature of 3.2°C. The intense cold wave, combined with ‘poor’ air quality and dense fog, has significantly disrupted daily life, prompting repeated advisories from the India Meteorological Department (IMD).
As icy winds sweep across the Indo-Gangetic plains, residents are struggling with freezing mornings, reduced visibility, delayed transport services, and rising health concerns. Meteorologists warn that the cold wave is far from over, with dense fog expected to persist over the next 48–72 hours, further aggravating conditions across Delhi, Uttar Pradesh, Punjab, Haryana, Rajasthan, and Bihar.
The minimum temperature of 3.2°C places Delhi among the coldest capitals in the country this season. Several weather stations across the city reported temperatures hovering close to freezing levels, particularly in open and low-lying areas.
IMD officials attributed the sharp dip to:
- Cold northerly winds from the Himalayas
- Clear night skies leading to rapid heat loss
- Persistent cold wave conditions across North India
Daytime temperatures have also remained below normal, offering little relief even during afternoon hours.
Alongside the cold wave, air quality in Delhi remains in the ‘poor’ category, compounding respiratory discomfort for residents. Low wind speeds and temperature inversion during winter months trap pollutants near the surface, worsening pollution levels.
Key factors contributing to poor AQI include:
- Vehicular emissions
- Industrial pollution
- Biomass burning in nearby regions
- Weather conditions preventing dispersion of pollutants
Health experts warn that cold air combined with pollution increases the risk of respiratory infections, especially for children, the elderly, and those with asthma or heart conditions.
The India Meteorological Department has issued a dense fog warning, cautioning residents and travelers of extremely low visibility during early morning and late-night hours.
According to IMD:
- Visibility in some areas may drop below 50 metres
- Fog conditions are expected to persist for at least the next two days
- Road, rail, and air transport may face repeated disruptions
Several flights and trains have already been delayed as fog blankets Delhi and neighboring states, creating travel chaos during peak hours.
The India Meteorological Department has issued a dense fog warning, cautioning residents and travelers of extremely low visibility during early morning and late-night hours.
According to IMD:
- Visibility in some areas may drop below 50 metres
- Fog conditions are expected to persist for at least the next two days
- Road, rail, and air transport may face repeated disruptions
Several flights and trains have already been delayed as fog blankets Delhi and neighboring states, creating travel chaos during peak hours.
The extreme weather has begun affecting daily routines:
Several state governments are considering:
- Delayed school timings
- Temporary closures in primary sections
- Online classes in extreme conditions
- Trains running late due to fog
- Flight delays at Delhi airport
- Road accidents reported due to low visibility
Outdoor workers, delivery personnel, and daily wage laborers are facing severe discomfort, with reduced productivity and health risks.
Medical professionals caution that cold waves combined with pollution can be dangerous, particularly for:
- Senior citizens
- Infants and young children
- People with respiratory or cardiovascular conditions
- Homeless populations
- Wearing layered clothing
- Avoiding early-morning outdoor activity
- Staying hydrated despite cold
- Using masks to reduce pollution exposure
Hospitals have reported a rise in cases of cold-related illnesses, respiratory infections, and seasonal flu.
To protect vulnerable populations, Delhi authorities have activated night shelters and emergency warming centers across the city. Additional blankets and temporary shelters have been arranged in high-risk areas.
Officials have urged citizens to:
- Inform authorities about homeless individuals in distress
- Avoid lighting open fires indoors
- Use heaters safely to prevent accidents
According to the IMD forecast:
- Cold wave conditions are likely to continue for the next 2–3 days
- Dense fog may persist during mornings and nights
- No significant temperature rise expected immediately
- Wind speeds may remain low, sustaining poor AQI
A slight improvement is expected only after western disturbances weaken and winds pick up, allowing better dispersion of pollutants.
Climate scientists point out that erratic winter patterns are becoming more frequent, with sharper cold spells interspersed with warmer periods. Urbanization, pollution, and changing atmospheric circulation patterns are contributing to more intense winter extremes.
Experts stress the need for:
- Long-term urban climate planning
- Improved pollution control
- Better winter preparedness strategies
Authorities and health agencies recommend the following precautions:
- Limit outdoor exposure during foggy hours
- Use fog lights while driving
- Keep emergency supplies ready
- Check weather updates regularly
- Assist elderly neighbors and vulnerable individuals
