Delhi experienced its chilliest morning yet this season as temperatures fell to 4.8°C, and forecasts indicate the mercury could dip even lower, reaching 4°C. The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has also reported similar cold wave conditions across northern states like Rajasthan, Punjab, and Haryana. Jammu and Kashmir, meanwhile, witnessed a fresh layer of snowfall earlier this week.
At India Gate on Tuesday, brisk northwesterly winds at 8–10 km/h intensified the morning chill. According to IMD’s Delhi regional office, skies are expected to remain mostly clear, with isolated cold wave conditions persisting. Smog and mist are anticipated in both early and late hours. Forecasts suggest a maximum temperature of 23°C alongside a biting 4°C minimum.
Remarkably, early December temperatures dipping below 5°C are rare in the capital, with 1987’s record low of 4.1°C standing as a historical benchmark.
IMD’s Extended Predictions for Delhi:
On December 12, a clear sky and isolated cold wave pockets are expected, with winds from the northwest at less than 8 km/h in the morning, increasing slightly to 16 km/h by midday. Similar conditions will persist on December 13, with winds stabilizing at around 10–12 km/h in the afternoon. Evening and nighttime hours will likely see reduced wind speeds paired with smog or mist.
IMD highlights that northwest and central India are likely to maintain consistent minimum temperatures for the coming days, signaling an unyielding grip of the current cold wave.
