Delhi Shivers at 10°C: Strong Winds, Dense Fog Keep Day Temperature Low; IMD Issues Yellow Alert

Delhi shivers as strong winds and dense fog keep maximum temperatures around 10–12°C. IMD issues yellow alert; check today’s weather update

Delhi and its surrounding regions woke up to a bone-chilling winter morning as strong surface winds and dense fog combined to keep daytime temperatures unusually low. The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued a yellow alert for the national capital, warning residents of persistent cold conditions, poor visibility, and weather-related discomfort over the next 24 to 48 hours.

The sudden dip in maximum temperatures has intensified winter woes across the city, disrupting daily routines, slowing traffic, and raising health concerns for vulnerable populations, including children, the elderly, and those with respiratory conditions.

According to IMD officials, Delhi’s maximum temperature has struggled to cross the 10–12°C mark, which is several degrees below the seasonal average for this time of year. Normally, daytime temperatures in early January hover around 17–19°C, but persistent cold northerly winds have prevented the sun from warming the city effectively.

Meteorologists explained that strong winds from the northwest, originating from snow-covered Himalayan regions, are continuously feeding cold air into the Indo-Gangetic plains. This has resulted in a sustained cold spell, with even afternoon hours feeling unusually harsh.

Adding to the discomfort is dense to very dense fog, particularly during early morning and late night hours. Visibility levels in several parts of Delhi dropped sharply, affecting road, rail, and air traffic.

Major arterial roads, including stretches of the Delhi-Gurgaon Expressway, Noida Link Road, and parts of Outer Ring Road, witnessed slow-moving traffic as drivers exercised caution amid low visibility. At the Indira Gandhi International Airport, several flights reported delays due to fog-related visibility constraints.

Railway officials also confirmed minor delays in long-distance trains arriving from northern and eastern states, a common occurrence during peak winter fog conditions.

The yellow alert issued by the IMD serves as a cautionary advisory, urging residents to stay alert and prepared for potentially disruptive weather. While it does not indicate extreme danger, it signals conditions that could cause inconvenience or pose health risks.

Under the yellow alert, the IMD has warned of:

Continued low maximum and minimum temperatures
Persistent cold winds
Dense fog during morning and night hours
Reduced visibility affecting transport services

Authorities have advised people to avoid unnecessary early-morning travel, wear adequate warm clothing, and take precautions against cold-related illnesses.

Night temperatures in Delhi have also remained low, with minimums hovering between 3°C and 5°C in several localities. Some outlying areas and open spaces reported temperatures dipping even further, intensifying cold wave-like conditions.

Weather experts note that when both maximum and minimum temperatures remain suppressed, the body experiences prolonged exposure to cold, increasing the risk of hypothermia and respiratory infections.

Meteorologists attribute the prolonged cold spell to a combination of factors:

Western Disturbances: Recent and successive western disturbances have altered wind patterns, pulling icy air masses from northern latitudes.
Clear Night Skies: Lack of cloud cover at night has led to rapid heat loss, lowering minimum temperatures.
Strong Surface Winds: Continuous winds prevent daytime warming, keeping temperatures suppressed.
High Moisture Levels: Increased moisture near the surface has contributed to fog formation.

These factors together have created a perfect winter storm, prolonging cold conditions across north India.

The cold weather has significantly affected daily life in the capital. Morning walkers have stayed indoors, street vendors have reduced working hours, and construction activity has slowed due to harsh conditions.

Hospitals across Delhi have reported an uptick in patients suffering from:

Cold and cough
Asthma and bronchitis flare-ups
Joint pain and stiffness
Skin dryness and infections

Doctors have advised residents to stay hydrated, avoid sudden exposure to cold air, and ensure proper ventilation while using heaters indoors to prevent carbon monoxide poisoning.

In response to the biting cold, the Delhi government and municipal bodies have intensified winter relief measures. Night shelters for the homeless have extended capacity, distributing blankets, warm meals, and medical assistance.

While no blanket school closures have been announced yet, education authorities are monitoring the situation closely, especially for younger students who are more vulnerable to cold stress.

Cold weather conditions have also contributed to fluctuating air quality levels. Low wind speeds during nighttime hours allow pollutants to accumulate, while daytime winds offer limited dispersion.

Experts warn that the combination of cold air and pollution can worsen respiratory symptoms, urging residents to limit outdoor exposure during peak pollution hours.

The IMD predicts that cold conditions will persist for at least the next two days. While a slight rise in maximum temperature is possible later in the week, foggy mornings and chilly winds are expected to continue.

There is also a possibility of another western disturbance approaching north India, which could bring light rain or cloud cover. While rain may marginally improve air quality, it could further lower temperatures temporarily.

Authorities and weather experts have issued the following advisories:

Avoid early morning outdoor activities during dense fog
Drive cautiously and use fog lights when visibility is low
Wear layered clothing to retain body heat
Protect children and elderly from cold exposure
Follow official IMD updates regularly

Delhi Shivers at 10°C: Strong Winds, Dense Fog Keep Day Temperature Low; IMD Issues Yellow Alert