January winter has tightened its grip across North India, bringing biting cold winds and sharply falling temperatures. The chill is being felt most during early mornings and late nights, affecting daily routines. Farmers, labourers and young people are facing increased hardship, with outdoor work becoming especially difficult. For farmers working in the fields, the morning hours remain the most challenging due to intense cold and low visibility.
In the national capital Delhi and surrounding NCR regions, winter conditions are compounded by severe air pollution. The air quality has deteriorated to alarming levels, with the Air Quality Index (AQI) crossing 400 in several areas, a level considered extremely hazardous to health. Prolonged exposure is leading to breathing difficulties, eye irritation and throat problems, particularly among children and the elderly.
According to the India Meteorological Department (IMD), Delhi’s minimum temperature on January 18 is expected to hover between 4 and 5 degrees Celsius. From January 19 to 21, partly cloudy conditions are likely. Minimum temperatures during January 19 and 20 may slightly rise to around 6–8 degrees Celsius, but there are no strong indications of significant relief from the cold in the near term.
Dense to very dense fog continues to affect Punjab, Haryana weather, Chandigarh, Delhi and several parts of Uttar Pradesh. Visibility drops sharply during morning hours, disrupting road and rail traffic and increasing the risk of accidents. Authorities have advised commuters to travel cautiously, while farmers have been urged to take care during irrigation, harvesting and early-morning field activities.
IMD forecasts light to moderate rainfall over Punjab, Haryana and western Uttar Pradesh on January 22 and 23. Eastern Uttar Pradesh and northern Rajasthan may receive rainfall on January 23. This rainfall could prove beneficial for rabi crops such as wheat and mustard. However, farmers are advised to plan agricultural activities carefully, keeping weather conditions in mind to avoid crop damage.
Overall, North India is expected to continue facing harsh winter conditions, making caution and preparedness essential for the days ahead.
Q1. How long will cold wave conditions continue in North India?
Cold conditions are likely to persist at least till late January, with only minor temperature fluctuations.
Q2. Why is Delhi-NCR facing severe pollution during winter?
Low wind speed, temperature inversion, vehicle emissions and crop residue burning contribute to high AQI levels.
Q3. Will upcoming rainfall benefit farmers?
Yes, light rainfall will benefit wheat and mustard crops, but excessive moisture can affect harvesting.
Q4. Which regions are most affected by dense fog?
Punjab, Haryana, Delhi, Chandigarh and western Uttar Pradesh are facing dense to very dense fog.
Q5. Where can farmers get daily weather and mandi updates?
Farmers can stay updated through reliable platforms like Khetivyapar for weather alerts and agriculture news.
