Winter May Be Chillier With More Cold Waves in Parts of North India: IMD Forecast
The Indian Meteorological Department (IMD) has forecast a colder-than-usual winter this year across several parts of the country, especially between December 2025 and February 2026. Large portions of central India — including Madhya Pradesh, north and east Maharashtra and parts of Gujarat — along with regions of northwest India such as Punjab, Haryana, Delhi, east and southeast Rajasthan, and west and south Uttar Pradesh, are likely to experience below-normal day and night temperatures.
In addition, the IMD expects 4–5 extra cold wave days in many of these states. Areas that typically record 4–6 cold wave days during winter could see 8–11 days this season. Parts of northeast India may also face additional cold wave days.
Colder December Likely Across Several States
According to the IMD, December itself may see one to three extra cold wave days in many regions of central, northwest and northeast India. This means several states could record 3–6 cold wave days in December, higher than their usual averages.
This year’s winter activity has also started early. The first spell of cold-to-severe-cold wave conditions was observed in isolated pockets of west, central and adjoining east India during November.
Where Cold Wave Conditions Were Already Recorded
Between November 8 and 18, cold-to-severe-cold wave days were reported in:
- Northeast Rajasthan
- South Haryana
- North Madhya Pradesh
- South Uttar Pradesh
- North Chhattisgarh
Additionally, north interior Maharashtra recorded cold wave conditions on November 15 and 20.
The IMD defines a cold wave when:
- The minimum temperature drops to 10°C or below in plains, or 0°C or below in hilly regions, and
- The temperature is 4.5°C to 6.4°C below normal.
Some Regions May See Warmer Day Temperatures
Even as nights are expected to be colder, a few regions — including parts of northwest India, northeast India, and the Himalayan foothills — may witness above-normal maximum temperatures during the day.
IMD Director General Mrutyunjay Mohapatra said the upcoming winter season will mostly bring normal to below-normal minimum temperatures across central India, adjoining peninsular regions, and parts of the northwest.
Impact on Health, Transport and Daily Life
The IMD highlighted that extended cold spells may pose challenges for various groups and sectors. Vulnerable groups — such as senior citizens, children and people with certain health conditions — may need extra caution during colder phases.
In addition:
- Early morning fog may reduce visibility and could impact road, rail and air travel.
- Stagnant atmospheric conditions may worsen air quality in some urban centres.
- Weather-dependent sectors like agriculture, horticulture and daily-wage labour may also experience operational difficulties during prolonged cold periods.
Authorities Advised to Maintain Preparedness
The IMD urged both the public and agencies to stay updated with its impact-based forecasts (IBF) issued through daily early-warning services. These updates help local authorities and communities plan ahead for weather changes.
Mr. Mohapatra added that cold wave occurrences in December are likely to be above normal across northwest, central and northeast India, signalling the need for heightened preparedness as winter begins.
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