Delhi-NCR Shivers Through Intense Cold Wave, Fog Disrupts Flights Across Airports

Delhi-NCR continued to reel under an intense cold wave for the fifth consecutive day on Thursday, with minimum temperatures plunging well below normal, the India Meteorological Department (IMD) reported. Night temperatures in the region have hovered near freezing, affecting Delhi, adjoining areas, and northwest India.

Gurugram emerged as one of the coldest spots, recording a minimum of 0.8°C on Wednesday, slightly warmer than the 0.6°C recorded on Monday — its lowest in nearly five decades. On Thursday, night temperatures rose slightly to 5°C, providing minor respite from the extreme chill.

The cold wave has triggered dense fog, impacting flight operations at Delhi’s Indira Gandhi International Airport. CAT III instrument landing conditions have been implemented, and airlines including IndiGo have issued advisories, warning of possible delays or disruptions. Passengers have been urged to check flight updates regularly.

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IMD forecasts indicate that the minimum temperatures will remain below normal for the next two days, before gradually returning to near-normal levels by Friday, signaling a slow easing of the cold wave. Residents are advised to take precautions against prolonged exposure to the extreme cold.

The cold in the plains has been comparable to or lower than temperatures at several Himalayan hill stations. Safdarjung Observatory recorded 3.8°C, while frost, or pala, has formed on crops, grasslands, and vehicles in Gurugram, raising concerns among farmers about potential damage to rabi crops.

Authorities have urged citizens to remain cautious while venturing outdoors and to stay updated on weather forecasts and travel advisories, as the extreme cold and fog continue to affect daily life and transportation across the region.

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