The New Year 2026 is set to begin with a significant shift in weather conditions across large parts of the country. According to the Meteorological Department, January 1, 2026, will witness intense cold and dense fog in many states, especially across northern India. While the hill regions are likely to experience heavy snowfall, the plains may see light rainfall along with cold wave conditions, increasing winter discomfort.
The weather department has forecast widespread to heavy rainfall and snowfall over Jammu & Kashmir, Ladakh, Gilgit-Baltistan, and the Muzaffarabad region on January 1. In addition, Himachal Pradesh and Uttarakhand are likely to receive light to moderate rain and snowfall at several locations on January 1 and 2. Fresh snowfall in higher altitudes may further bring down temperatures across these regions.
On January 1, light rain or drizzle is expected at isolated places over Punjab, Haryana weather, Chandigarh, Rajasthan, western Uttar Pradesh, and Delhi. Due to the influence of an active western disturbance, moisture levels will rise, making the cold conditions feel more severe in the plains.
From the first day of the New Year, dense fog is likely to persist across Uttar Pradesh, Bihar, Punjab, Haryana, and the Delhi-NCR region. Reduced sunshine hours due to fog may keep daytime temperatures below normal. In several districts, maximum temperatures are expected to hover between 14°C and 16°C, which falls under cold day conditions. Dense fog may continue over eastern Uttar Pradesh till January 2 and western Rajasthan till January 3.
Delhi experienced an intensely cold end to December, and no major relief is expected on New Year’s Day. As per the weather department, dense fog during morning hours may disrupt traffic in Delhi, Noida, Ghaziabad, Meerut, and nearby areas on January 1. The maximum temperature during the day is likely to range between 15°C and 17°C, while the minimum temperature may drop to 6–8°C at night.
Cold day conditions are likely at isolated places over Punjab, Haryana, Chandigarh, Delhi, and parts of Bihar on January 1, 2026. Cold wave conditions are expected over Himachal Pradesh from January 2 to 4; Punjab, Haryana, Chandigarh, and Delhi from January 3 to 5; Rajasthan on January 5 and 6; and Telangana on January 1.
Advisory and Precautions: The Meteorological Department has advised people to remain cautious while driving during dense fog, especially during early morning and night hours. Farmers are urged to take necessary measures to protect crops from frost and cold stress. Travelers heading to hilly regions are advised to check the latest weather updates before planning their journeys.
Q1. What is causing dense fog and cold wave in North India?
Western disturbances and high moisture levels are the main reasons.
Q2. Which states are most affected on January 1, 2026?
Uttar Pradesh, Delhi-NCR, Punjab, Haryana, Bihar, and hill states.
Q3. Will snowfall continue in hill regions?
Yes, light to heavy snowfall is expected till January 2.
Q4. How will dense fog impact daily life?
Low visibility may disrupt road, rail, and air traffic.
Q5. Where can I get reliable weather updates?
Follow official IMD alerts and updates on Khetivyapar.
