Overview: Dense Fog Persists Across North India
North India is under the spell of a continuous cold spell as thick fog blankets major plains and urban centers. The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has cautioned that dense to very dense fog is likely to prevail during the night, with visibility remaining severely reduced at several key travel corridors. The weather pattern is contributing to a pronounced drop in temperatures, turning nights and early mornings especially frigid across the region.
What the IMD Is Predicting
According to the IMD, dense to very dense fog conditions are expected to continue over northern states and parts of central India through the coming days. Night and early morning hours will experience the lowest visibility, affecting road transport and air connectivity. As the cold wave grips the area, night temperatures are anticipated to dip well below normal for this time of year, with daytime readings struggling to climb beyond the mid or low teens in many places.
Regional Impact
The most affected states include Punjab, Haryana, Uttar Pradesh, Delhi, Uttarakhand, and parts of western Bihar and western Uttar Pradesh. In major cities, commuters should expect delays in morning commutes and a higher risk of traffic accidents due to sudden fog banks. Airports in northern hubs have already flagged cautions for pilots, with potential disruptions if fog density spikes overnight.
Health and Safety Tips
Public health officials remind residents to take precautions to cope with the cold and reduced visibility. Layered clothing, warm accessories, and regular hydration are advised, especially for children and the elderly. Drivers should use fog lights, maintain safe following distances, and avoid unnecessary night travel when visibility is poor. Pedestrians are urged to wear bright, reflective clothing when moving about near roads during foggy hours.
Travel and Daily Life Impacts
With fog persisting, schools and outdoor activities may experience delays or rescheduling in some districts. Commuters should check local transit advisories and weather briefings before heading out. Agricultural activities may be affected by the persistent cool conditions and dew-heavy nights, which can influence crops sensitive to frost-like conditions in marginal zones.
Forecast Outlook
Forecasts suggest that temperatures will gradually moderate as a weak western disturbance approaches, but the fog could linger in pockets of the Indo-Gangetic plains. Meteorologists note that clear nights with light winds might allow fog to form again, especially in the buildup to sunrise. Beyond the immediate term, residents should monitor IMD updates for any shifts in risk levels or travel advisories.
What to Do Next
Stay informed through official weather bulletins, plan travel with extra time, and keep emergency kits ready for winter conditions. Businesses relying on logistics and transportation should communicate contingency plans to minimize disruption. While the fog can be mesmerizing, it also carries hazards that are best managed with caution and preparedness.
