Chandigarh: The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has warned of persistent dense to very dense fog across several northern and eastern states, along with a severe cold wave sweeping the region. The advisory comes as temperatures continue to dip sharply, affecting daily life and transportation.
According to the IMD, areas in Uttar Pradesh, Punjab, Haryana, Chandigarh, Delhi, Bihar, Himachal Pradesh, and Uttarakhand are expected to witness thick fog during night and early morning hours. The conditions are likely to persist in Uttar Pradesh, Punjab, and Haryana until January 1, 2026, while Himachal Pradesh and Uttarakhand will experience fog until December 30. Bihar is expected to have dense fog until December 27, and Assam and Meghalaya until December 26.
“Dense fog conditions during night and morning hours are very likely in some pockets over Assam, Meghalaya, Bihar, Odisha until December 30; Arunachal Pradesh till December 28; and Sub-Himalayan West Bengal till December 27,” the IMD stated in its official notification.
The persistent fog is expected to reduce visibility significantly, impacting road, rail, and air travel. Commuters are advised to exercise caution and follow traffic advisories.
In addition to the fog, a severe cold wave with chilly daytime temperatures is expected to grip these regions, making conditions particularly harsh for residents, especially the elderly and children. The IMD has also issued a yellow alert for certain districts, warning people to take necessary precautions against the cold and reduced visibility.
In the Delhi-NCR region, temperatures remain low, with thick smog combining with fog to create hazardous air quality levels in some areas. Authorities have urged residents to limit outdoor exposure and take safety measures while commuting.
The IMD continues to monitor weather developments closely and will provide updated forecasts and warnings as conditions evolve.
