Dense to very dense fog enveloped large parts of northern India on December 19, 2025, significantly reducing visibility during early morning hours and disrupting transportation across the region. The India Meteorological Department (IMD) reported widespread fog over Punjab, Haryana, Chandigarh, Delhi, and Uttar Pradesh, with visibility in Delhi NCR dropping to as low as 50-200 meters in several areas. Cold day conditions persisted in isolated pockets of Uttar Pradesh and Uttarakhand, while minimum temperatures remained below 10°C in many northern plains cities.
The IMD's forecast highlighted persistent foggy conditions, attributing them to calm winds, high humidity, and clear night skies that allowed pollutants to accumulate near the surface. Poor air quality in Delhi NCR remained a concern, particularly for vulnerable groups such as the elderly, children, and those with respiratory issues. Minimum temperatures across North India were expected to rise gradually by 2-3°C in the coming days, but foggy mornings and chilly conditions were likely to continue. Light snowfall was anticipated in higher reaches of Jammu and Kashmir, with isolated heavy falls possible around December 21.
In contrast, southern India experienced mild winter weather on the same day, with no significant warnings issued. Major cities saw comfortable temperatures and partly cloudy skies, accompanied by occasional morning mist or shallow fog. Hyderabad recorded temperatures between 14°C and 30°C under mainly clear skies, while Bengaluru ranged from 16°C to 28°C with morning mist expected.
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Chennai witnessed highs around 30°C and lows of 21°C, with possible morning fog or mist. Thiruvananthapuram and Amaravati also reported mild conditions, with Amaravati potentially seeing shallow fog early in the day and temperatures up to 32°C. Humidity levels in the south remained moderate, contributing to pleasant daytime weather.
This sharp north-south divide underscored India's diverse winter patterns, with the north grappling with intense fog and cold, while the south enjoyed relatively warmer and clearer conditions. The IMD advised caution for travelers in fog-affected northern regions, recommending checks on flight and train statuses due to potential delays. No major rainfall was reported across most of the country, except for light activity over the western Himalayas.
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