A biting cold wave has swept through large parts of north India, as freezing conditions gripped Delhi, Jammu & Kashmir, and Himachal Pradesh. The India Meteorological Department (IMD) issued alerts from December 9, forecasting sharply falling temperatures, foggy mornings, and even snowfall in higher regions.
In south Kashmir’s Shopian, mercury plunged to –4.2 °C, making it the coldest spot in the region. Meanwhile, the summer capital Srinagar recorded –2.5 °C overnight, highlighting how swiftly the weather has turned. Parts of Himachal, too, including Rohtang Pass near Manali, saw fresh snowfall.
IMD Forecast: Cold Waves to Continue Further
According to the latest IMD bulletin, cold wave conditions will affect:
- Central, eastern, and northern peninsular India from December 9–12
- Northwest and western India, starting December 10 — including parts of Punjab, Haryana, Delhi, Rajasthan, and more- is expected to last till December 12.
- Residents in states like Madhya Pradesh, Chhattisgarh, Odisha, Vidarbha and Telangana are also likely to face chill, while dense morning fog may hit pockets of Assam, Manipur, eastern Uttar Pradesh and Odisha.
- Over the next 48 hours, northwest India could see a drop of about 2 °C in minimum temperatures. A slight increase of 2–4 °C is predicted thereafter.
Travel Disruptions Begin: Snow Falls & Roads Shut
The higher-altitude areas of central Kashmir witnessed light snowfall, making roads, especially the Srinagar–Leh National Highway, slippery and risky. Winter travel has already become tricky.
In Himachal, snow at places like Rohtang Pass forced authorities to shut down important routes. The typical winter closure of the Manali–Leh Road beyond Darcha is now in effect.
Delhi Weather: Fog + Cold + Poor Air Quality
In the national capital, the cold is being accompanied by thick morning fog, adding to travel woes and health concerns. Air Quality Index (AQI) hovered in the “poor to very poor” range. Minimum temperature is expected to fall further in the coming days, increasing the discomfort for residents.
What to Expect & How to Stay Safe?
Cold wave, snowfall and fog are forecast to persist through mid-December in many parts of north, central, and peninsular India. Travel to high-altitude areas like Kashmir or Himachal should be planned with caution because of slick roads and possible shutdowns.
In plains and metro areas, residents should brace for chilly nights and cold mornings; early-morning fog may reduce visibility, so commuters should be alert. Vulnerable groups like children, the elderly and those with respiratory issues need to take care, especially with poor air quality and cold conditions.
