Cold Wave Returns As Temperatures Dip Sharply After First Rain Of The Year

Large parts of north India are expected to experience a fresh cold wave from late Thursday night as very cold and dry air moves into the plains.

An independent weather observer shared the update on social media, warning that strong northwesterly winds will bring a noticeable drop in temperatures.

According to the post, cold winds blowing at speeds of 15 to 35 kmph are likely to affect several northern states. These winds are expected to cause a sharp fall in night temperatures over the next few days.

Night Temperatures to Drop Sharply

The weather observer said minimum temperatures could fall by 0 to 5 degrees Celsius in many cities across Punjab, Haryana, Chandigarh, Delhi-NCR and northwest Rajasthan between January 24 and January 26. While daytime conditions may remain sunny, the cold will persist, with maximum temperatures staying low.

Daytime highs are expected to remain between 13 and 17 degrees Celsius during this period, making the weather feel chilly throughout the day. The observer added that dense fog is unlikely in the next two days but advised people to take care due to dry and biting cold conditions.

IMD Forecast: Rain, Snow and More Cold Ahead

The India Meteorological Department (IMD) said rainfall and snowfall activity over the western Himalayan region is likely to reduce to isolated or scattered light to moderate levels on January 24 and 25. However, the relief may be short-lived.

According to the IMD's daily bulletin, a fresh wet spell is expected to affect northwest India from January 27. This system could bring widespread rain and snowfall over the western Himalayan region on January 27, followed by scattered precipitation on January 28.

Fog and Cold Wave Conditions Likely

The weather department also warned of isolated heavy rainfall and snowfall over Jammu and Kashmir and Himachal Pradesh on January 27. Light to moderate rain may affect the nearby northwest plains during the same period.

Minimum temperatures across northwest India are expected to fall by 3 to 5 degrees Celsius within the next 24 hours. Dense to very dense fog is likely in isolated areas of Punjab, Haryana and Chandigarh between January 24 and 26. Dense fog may also impact parts of Himachal Pradesh, Rajasthan and Madhya Pradesh.

Cold wave conditions are expected in isolated pockets of Himachal Pradesh on January 25 and 26.

The IMD said current weather patterns are being influenced by a well-marked low-pressure area over north Pakistan, strong upper-level winds, and an active subtropical westerly jet stream. Another western disturbance is likely to approach from January 26, which may further intensify cold, rain and snowfall across the region.