North India is bracing for a sharper spell of winter from January 19, with temperatures expected to dip further as two western disturbances move towards the region in quick succession. Weather experts say the change in wind direction and approaching systems will intensify cold conditions across Delhi, Punjab, Haryana, Rajasthan, Uttar Pradesh and parts of Bihar over the next few days.
According to the India Meteorological Department, the western disturbances will primarily affect the Western Himalayan region through the coming week, increasing the likelihood of rain and snowfall in the hills by January 23. Meteorologists have also warned that dense to very dense fog will continue to disrupt visibility across northwest India and Bihar for at least the next two to three days.
Westerly Winds Set Stage for Colder Nights
Devendra Tripathi, founder of Mausam Tak and weather vlogger for Kisan Tak, explained that westerly winds are now moving in a direction that strengthens cold air flow into the plains. He said this shift is expected to bring slightly lower minimum temperatures across large parts of North India on January 19.
While fog conditions may ease marginally in some pockets, Tripathi noted that dense fog is still likely in parts of Jammu and Kashmir, Himachal Pradesh and Uttarakhand. The IMD has cautioned that very dense fog may persist in parts of Uttar Pradesh till January 19, posing challenges for road, rail and air travel.
Fog, Snow and Cold Wave Alerts Issued
In Delhi, residents can expect a partly cloudy sky, with moderate fog in many areas and dense fog in isolated pockets during the morning hours. Maximum temperatures in the capital are forecast to remain between 24 and 26 degrees Celsius, while minimum temperatures may drop to between seven and nine degrees Celsius.
Further north, light to moderate rain or snowfall is likely in Jammu and Kashmir, Ladakh and Himachal Pradesh, with chances of snowfall over higher reaches extending from Gilgit to Ladakh. The IMD has also warned of cold wave conditions in isolated pockets of Himachal Pradesh and Odisha on January 19.
As winter tightens its grip, authorities have urged people to remain cautious, especially during early morning travel when fog and low visibility are expected to be at their worst. The coming days are likely to test both daily routines and transport systems across much of North India as the season’s coldest phase unfolds.