**Severe Cold and Dense Fog Engulf Delhi and Northern India**
As of January 8, 2026, a bone-chilling cold has settled over Delhi and northern India, with the India Meteorological Department (IMD) forecasting extreme weather conditions. While the northern plains are experiencing a significant cold spell, southern regions are preparing for widespread rainfall due to heavy moisture accumulation along the coast.
The IMD has issued warnings for dense to very dense fog across northwest, central, and northeastern India, particularly affecting Punjab, Haryana, Chandigarh, and Uttar Pradesh. Visibility is expected to drop significantly, potentially disrupting travel and daily activities.
**Persistent Cold and Fog Conditions**
The weather department predicts that very dense fog will persist in Punjab, Haryana, and Chandigarh from January 8 to 10, followed by dense fog from January 11 to 14. Cold day conditions are anticipated to continue across Haryana, Chandigarh, Delhi, Punjab, western Uttar Pradesh, and Uttarakhand.
In the past 24 hours, Ambikapur in Chhattisgarh recorded the lowest minimum temperature in India’s plains, plummeting to 3.3 degrees Celsius. The IMD has also indicated that cold wave conditions are likely to persist in isolated areas of Himachal Pradesh, eastern Madhya Pradesh, Chhattisgarh, Odisha, and Jharkhand.
**Travel Disruptions Due to Weather**
The severe weather has already impacted travel, with IndiGo issuing a travel advisory due to low visibility and dense fog over Varanasi. Passengers are advised to check their flight status regularly, as weather conditions may affect flight schedules.
**Understanding Cold Day and Severe Cold Day Definitions**
According to the IMD, a “cold day” is defined as a situation where the minimum temperature falls below 10 degrees Celsius and the maximum temperature is at least 4.5 degrees Celsius below normal. A “severe cold day” is declared when the maximum temperature drops 6.5 degrees Celsius or more below the seasonal average.
**Conclusion**
As northern India grapples with severe cold and dense fog, residents and travelers are urged to stay informed about weather updates and take necessary precautions. The ongoing cold wave and fog conditions are expected to continue, impacting daily life and travel in the region.
**FAQ**
**What should travelers do during severe fog conditions?**
Travelers should check flight and train statuses frequently, allow extra time for travel, and consider postponing non-essential trips until visibility improves.