Delhi Shivers as Mercury Dips to 2.9°C, Cold Wave Grips Isolated Pockets

Delhi Shivers as Mercury Dips to 2.9°C, Severe Cold Wave Grips Isolated Pockets

By: Javid Amin | 10 January 2026

Delhi in the Grip of a Severe Cold Wave

Delhi experienced one of its coldest spells of the season on Friday, with the mercury plunging to 2.9°C in isolated pockets, intensifying the winter chill across the national capital. The sharp drop in temperatures has pushed several areas into severe cold wave conditions, prompting weather warnings and widespread disruption.

According to the India Meteorological Department (IMD), the city’s base station at Safdarjung recorded a minimum temperature of 4.2°C on January 10, 2026, marking the coldest morning in the past two years.

Temperatures Plunge Below Normal

While Safdarjung’s reading remained above the freezing mark, several outlying and low-lying pockets witnessed a sharper dip, touching 2.9°C, as clear skies and calm winds allowed rapid night-time cooling.

Meteorologists attribute the plunge to:

• Persistent northwesterly winds from snow-covered regions

• Clear skies causing radiational cooling

• High moisture levels trapping cold air near the surface

Such conditions often result in temperature inversions, making some pockets colder than surrounding areas.

IMD Issues Yellow Alert for Cold Wave and Fog

The IMD has issued a yellow alert, warning residents of:

• Severe cold wave conditions

• Dense to very dense fog during early morning hours

• Reduced visibility across roads, railways, and airports

Weather officials said the cold spell is likely to persist, especially during night and early morning hours.

Dense Fog Disrupts Transport Services

Dense fog has compounded the impact of the cold wave, leading to widespread transport disruptions.

Affected Services

• Flight delays at Delhi airport due to low visibility

• Trains running behind schedule

• Slow-moving traffic on highways and arterial roads

Commuters reported longer travel times, particularly during morning hours when visibility dropped sharply.

Air Quality Worsens Amid Cold and Fog

The cold wave has coincided with very poor air quality, as fog and high humidity trap pollutants close to the ground.

Current Conditions

• AQI remains in the “very poor” category

• Smog reduces visibility and aggravates breathing difficulties

• Vulnerable groups face increased respiratory stress

Doctors warn that prolonged exposure to cold, polluted air can worsen asthma, bronchitis, and other lung conditions.

Health Risks Rise During Prolonged Cold Exposure

Medical experts caution that severe cold waves pose serious health risks, particularly for:

• Elderly people

• Young children

• Those with heart or respiratory ailments

Potential risks include:

• Hypothermia

• Frostbite in extreme exposure

• Increased cardiac stress due to vasoconstriction

Hospitals have advised residents to limit outdoor exposure during early mornings and late nights.

Outdoor Workers Bear the Brunt

The biting cold has hit outdoor workers the hardest, including:

• Street vendors

• Construction labourers

• Security guards and delivery personnel

Without adequate protection or heated shelters, prolonged exposure significantly increases health risks.

Power Demand Surges Across the City

As temperatures dipped, electricity consumption surged, driven by:

• Increased use of heaters and blowers

• Higher nighttime power demand

Power distribution companies reported peak loads as households relied heavily on heating appliances to combat the cold.

Snapshot: Delhi Cold Wave at a Glance

Urban Vulnerability Comes Into Focus

The cold wave has once again highlighted Delhi’s urban vulnerability, particularly for:

• Homeless populations

• Slum dwellers lacking heating

• Informal workers without winter gear

Experts stress the need for expanded night shelters, community warming centres, and targeted outreach during extreme winter events.

Outlook: Cold Conditions to Persist

IMD forecasts suggest:

• Continued cold wave conditions

• Dense fog during early mornings

• Slight daytime relief due to sunshine

Residents have been advised to remain cautious and follow weather advisories.

Conclusion: More Than Just Cold Weather

Delhi’s cold wave is not merely a seasonal event. It is a test of urban preparedness, public health resilience, and infrastructure response. As temperatures plunge and fog blankets the city, authorities and communities alike face the challenge of protecting the most vulnerable during one of the harshest winter spells in recent years.