India Braces for Intense Cold Wave as IMD Issues Widespread Snowfall and Fog Alerts

A severe cold wave is sweeping across northern India. The India Meteorological Department has issued critical weather warnings. Dense fog and snowfall alerts are in effect for multiple states this week.

The warnings cover a vast area from the Western Himalayas to the northeastern states. According to the IMD, these conditions will disrupt daily life and travel. The situation has prompted immediate official action in several regions.

Snowfall Expected in Western Himalayas and Northeast

Light rain or snowfall is forecast for isolated areas. The Western Himalayan region will be affected from December 14 to 18. This includes Jammu & Kashmir, Ladakh, and Himachal Pradesh.

Himachal Pradesh and Uttarakhand may see similar conditions on December 14. Arunachal Pradesh is likely to experience snowfall between December 15 and 17. These conditions are typical for the season but still pose travel risks.

Thunderstorms with lightning are also predicted. They are very likely over the Andaman and Nicobar Islands from December 13 to 15. Gusty winds reaching 30–40 kmph may accompany these storms.

Dense Fog and Severe Cold Wave Conditions Forecast

The cold wave will grip several central and southern states. Isolated locations in Telangana and Interior Karnataka will feel it on December 14 and 15. Chhattisgarh and Odisha are likely to experience similar conditions on December 14.

North Interior Karnataka may face severe cold wave conditions on December 14. Eastern Uttar Pradesh is likely to see dense fog from December 14 to 16. Very dense fog is expected there on December 14 and 15.

Dense fog is also predicted for northeastern states. Isolated areas of Nagaland, Manipur, Mizoram, and Tripura will be affected from December 14 to 18. Assam, Meghalaya, Punjab, Haryana, and Delhi will see similar conditions from December 14 to 16.

Delhi Weather and Emergency Pollution Measures Enacted

Delhi’s sky is expected to be partly cloudy with moderate morning fog. Maximum temperatures will range from 23°C to 25°C. Minimum temperatures will dip to between 9°C and 11°C.

In response to worsening air quality, strict measures are now in place. The Commission for Air Quality Management invoked GRAP Stage IV. This includes a ban on all construction in Delhi-NCR.

The decision followed a sharp rise in pollution levels. Authorities held an urgent meeting to review the deteriorating situation. The move highlights the dual challenge of cold weather and severe pollution.

The widespread cold wave alert signals a prolonged period of harsh winter conditions. Residents across northern and central India should prepare for significant disruptions. Travel plans may be severely affected by dense fog and snowfall in the coming days.

Info at your fingertips

Which states have received a severe cold wave alert?

The IMD has issued alerts for Telangana, Interior Karnataka, Chhattisgarh, and Odisha. North Interior Karnataka may face particularly severe conditions. These alerts are focused on December 14 and 15.

Is snowfall expected in Jammu & Kashmir?

Yes. The forecast includes light rain or snowfall in Jammu & Kashmir from December 14 to 18. Similar conditions are expected in Ladakh and other Western Himalayan regions. Himachal Pradesh and Uttarakhand may also see snow on the 14th.

What is the weather forecast for Delhi?

Delhi can expect partly cloudy skies with moderate morning fog. The maximum temperature will be around 23–25°C. The minimum temperature will be a cooler 9–11°C.

Why has GRAP Stage IV been invoked in Delhi?

Stage IV was invoked due to a sharp rise in air pollution levels. Unfavorable meteorological conditions worsened the smog. The ban includes all construction and demolition work in the NCR.

Are there any travel warnings in place?

Yes. Dense fog warnings affect many states, which will reduce visibility on roads. Fishermen are advised to avoid the Gulf of Mannar and adjoining areas until December 18. Travelers should check conditions before heading out.