Dense fog and cold wave conditions continue to grip large parts of North India as winter intensifies. The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued alerts for several northern states, warning of dense to very dense fog, reduced visibility, and severe cold conditions over the next few days. Delhi, Uttar Pradesh, Bihar, Punjab, and Haryana are among the regions facing the worst impact.

1. Dense Fog Disrupts Daily Life Across North India

Several parts of North India witnessed extremely low visibility during early morning hours due to dense fog. Roads, railways, and flight operations were affected as fog reduced visibility to unsafe levels in many areas.

The IMD has warned that such conditions may continue for the next two to three days.

2. Yellow Alert Issued for Delhi

The IMD has issued a yellow alert for Delhi on December 19, cautioning residents about cold wave conditions and fog. People in the national capital woke up to chilly weather with thick fog during the morning hours.

The minimum temperature is expected to fall to around 7°C, while the maximum temperature may reach 22°C.

3. Red Alert Declared for Dense Fog in Delhi

In addition to the yellow alert, a red alert has been issued for dense fog in Delhi due to extremely poor visibility. The foggy conditions have already disrupted flight operations at Delhi airport and caused traffic slowdowns across Delhi-NCR.

Visibility during early morning hours dropped sharply, affecting commuters.

4. Temperature and Wind Conditions in Delhi

According to IMD forecasts:

• Maximum temperature: 21–23°C

• Minimum temperature: 8–10°C

Winds are expected to blow from the west at speeds up to 15 kmph in the afternoon, gradually reducing to less than 5 kmph during the evening and night.

5. Weekly Weather Forecast for Delhi

The IMD has shared a short-term forecast for Delhi:

• December 19: Partly cloudy sky, moderate fog at many places, dense fog at isolated areas, mist at night

• December 20: Partly cloudy, shallow to moderate fog in the morning

• December 21: Moderate fog at many places, dense fog at isolated locations

• December 22: Similar fog conditions expected during morning hours

Residents are advised to remain cautious while commuting.

6. Red Alert Issued Across North Indian States

The IMD has issued a red alert for North India, warning of dense to very dense fog conditions. States under alert include:

• Uttar Pradesh

• Punjab

• Haryana

• Bihar

• Uttarakhand

The fog is expected to severely impact road and air travel.

7. Cold Wave and Severe Cold Day Conditions

Apart from fog, cold wave and severe cold day conditions are likely in parts of Uttar Pradesh and Uttarakhand. The IMD has warned that temperatures may remain significantly below normal in isolated pockets.

Such conditions increase the risk of health issues, especially for elderly people and children.

8. Dense Fog Likely in Bihar, Jharkhand and Odisha

The weather department has also predicted dense fog in:

• Bihar

• Jharkhand

• Odisha

• Gangetic West Bengal

• Northeast India

These regions may experience reduced visibility during early morning hours over the next few days.

9. Air Quality Remains Very Poor to Severe

The foggy conditions come at a time when air quality in Delhi and surrounding regions remains ‘very poor’ to ‘severe’. Low wind speed and fog have worsened pollution levels, increasing health risks.

Authorities have advised people to limit outdoor activities.

10. IMD Advises Caution for Travel and Health

The IMD has urged people to:

• Avoid unnecessary travel during early mornings

• Drive slowly with fog lights on

• Keep warm and protect against cold-related illnesses

• Follow official weather updates

Passengers are also advised to check flight and train schedules before traveling.

Conclusion

North India is facing a challenging winter phase with dense fog, cold wave conditions, and poor air quality. With red alerts issued for multiple states, residents are advised to remain alert and follow safety guidelines. Weather conditions are expected to remain harsh over the next few days, making caution essential for travel and daily activities.