Winter Grip Tightens: IMD Issues Fog and Rain Alert Across Northern India

The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued a widespread fog and rain alert across northern India, warning of reduced visibility, travel disruptions, and a fresh spell of winter precipitation as the new year begins. The advisory covers large parts of the Indo-Gangetic plains and the western Himalayan region, where weather conditions are expected to remain challenging over the next few days.

According to IMD forecasts, dense to very dense fog is likely during night and early morning hours across Delhi, Punjab, Haryana, Chandigarh, Uttar Pradesh, Bihar, Rajasthan, and parts of West Bengal. Visibility levels may drop sharply, affecting road traffic, rail movement, and flight operations, particularly at major airports in the National Capital Region.

In addition to fog, the IMD has predicted light to moderate rainfall in parts of northwestern India, including Delhi, due to an active western disturbance. The weather system is also expected to bring rain and snowfall to the higher reaches of Jammu and Kashmir, Himachal Pradesh, and Uttarakhand, increasing the risk of slippery roads and temporary closures in hill areas.

Cold day and cold wave conditions are likely to persist in several regions, with minimum temperatures remaining below normal in parts of the northern plains. The combination of cold air, fog, and light rain may further deteriorate air quality, especially in urban centers such as Delhi, where pollution levels often spike during winter months.

The IMD has advised residents to remain cautious, particularly during early morning travel, and urged commuters to check flight and train schedules in advance. Authorities have also recommended the use of fog lights on highways and extra vigilance while driving in low-visibility conditions.

As winter conditions intensify, meteorologists say the foggy spell may continue intermittently over the coming days, with gradual improvement expected only after the weather system weakens. Until then, northern India is set to remain under a firm winter grip.