Cold Wave & Dense Fog Grip North India | India News
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Cold Wave Grips Northern India, Disrupts Travel and Daily Life
Table of Contents
Updated December 21, 2025, 05:35:32 AM PST
Current Situation
intense cold wave conditions and dense fog are substantially disrupting normal life across several northern Indian states.The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued a red alert for Uttar Pradesh due to persistent, hazardous foggy conditions.
Delhi is experiencing a severe cold wave, with limited sunshine and high levels of air pollution contributing to reduced visibility. On Saturday, December 21, 2025, at least 129 flights were cancelled at Delhi’s indira Gandhi International Airport due to the dense fog, according to the
Press Trust of India (PTI).
The IMD has issued fresh alerts for cold wave conditions in Jammu and Kashmir, Ladakh, Gilgit-Baltistan, and Muzaffarabad.
Temperature Outlook
According to the IMD, minimum temperatures across northwest India are expected to rise gradually by 2-3 degrees Celsius over the next three days. However, a subsequent drop of 2-4 degrees Celsius is forecast during the following four days.
Maharashtra, central India, and northeast India are not expected to experience significant changes in minimum temperatures over the next seven days.
Impact on Transportation
The dense fog is causing major disruptions to air travel. The cancellation of 129 flights at delhi airport highlights the severity of the situation. Road and rail transport are also likely to be affected, with potential delays and cancellations. Drivers are advised to exercise extreme caution and use fog lights when operating vehicles.
Visibility levels have dropped to near zero in some areas, making travel extremely risky. Authorities are urging people to avoid unneeded travel.
Health Concerns
Cold wave conditions can pose significant health risks, particularly for vulnerable populations such as the elderly, children, and those with pre-existing medical conditions. Exposure to prolonged cold can lead to hypothermia and other cold-related illnesses.
Health officials advise people to stay warm, dress in layers, and avoid prolonged exposure to the cold. It is also important to stay hydrated and eat nutritious food. Individuals experiencing symptoms of hypothermia or other cold-related illnesses should seek medical attention immediately.
Regional Breakdown
| State/Region | Current Conditions | Forecast |
|---|---|---|
| Uttar Pradesh | Red Alert – Dense Fog, severe Cold | Fog to persist, cold wave conditions to continue. |
| Delhi | Severe Cold Wave, Reduced Visibility | Gradual temperature rise followed by a drop. |
| Jammu & Kashmir/Ladakh | Cold Wave, Alerts Issued | Cold wave conditions to continue. |
| Maharashtra/Central India | Normal Temperatures | No significant change expected. |
| Northeast India | Normal Temperatures | No significant change expected. |