Dense fog blanketed Delhi on January 8, 2026, as icy northwesterly winds drove the minimum temperature down to 5.8°C at Safdarjung Observatory—one degree below normal and a sharp drop from 8.6°C recorded the previous day. The mercury plunged even lower to 4.8°C at Palam, intensifying the chill across the capital. Visibility reduced significantly to 150 meters at Palam due to the thick fog, which persisted at upper levels over the northern plains and limited sunshine, preventing any meaningful rise in daytime temperatures.

The maximum temperature hovered between 15 and 17°C, remaining about two degrees below normal. Cold day conditions continued in isolated pockets of Delhi for the second consecutive day, with Palam and Lodhi Road weather stations meeting the criteria—minimum temperature below 10°C and maximum at least 4.5°C below normal. On December 4 and 5, Safdarjung had recorded the season's lowest minimum of 5.6°C, and the current spell of cold weather reflects a persistent pattern influenced by consistent northwesterly winds, as noted by private forecaster Skymet Weather.

Air quality showed only marginal improvement but stayed in the upper end of the "poor" category, with a 24-hour rolling average Air Quality Index (AQI) of 276 recorded at 9am. The Air Quality Early Warning System forecast a likely deterioration to the "very poor" category later in the day, adding to the discomfort caused by the cold and fog. Residents faced reduced visibility and biting cold, with conditions expected to remain similar in the coming days unless a significant change in wind patterns occurs.

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The combination of dense fog, low temperatures, and poor air quality has been typical of Delhi's winter season, often exacerbated by calm atmospheric conditions and pollution buildup. Authorities continue to monitor the situation closely, with no major relief from warmer winds anticipated in the immediate forecast. Commuters and early morning travelers are advised to exercise caution due to low visibility on roads and highways. As winter deepens, such weather patterns are likely to recur, underscoring the need for continued vigilance regarding both health and travel safety in the capital.

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