Delhi experienced its coldest January morning in over a decade on 12 January 2026, with temperatures plunging to a bone-chilling 2.9 degrees Celsius, marking the lowest minimum recorded in the city in the last 13 years. The sharp drop in temperature sent a wave of cold across the national capital, significantly impacting daily life, transport services, and public health, as winter reached its harshest phase this season.
According to weather officials, the severe cold was the result of strong northwesterly winds carrying icy air from snow-covered regions, combined with clear night skies that allowed rapid heat loss from the surface. Several parts of Delhi-NCR recorded temperatures far below the seasonal average, with suburbs and open areas experiencing even harsher conditions than central districts. The chill was intensified by low wind speeds during the early hours, making the cold feel even more severe.
In response to the extreme conditions, the India Meteorological Department issued an orange alert for Delhi and adjoining regions, warning residents of continued cold-wave conditions over the next few days. The alert indicates potentially dangerous weather that could impact health and essential services, especially for vulnerable groups such as senior citizens, children, and people suffering from respiratory or heart-related ailments.
Dense fog accompanied the cold wave, reducing visibility during early morning hours and disrupting road, rail, and air travel. Several flights and trains experienced delays as visibility dropped sharply in parts of the city. Commuters faced difficult conditions, with long waits at bus stops and slower traffic movement on arterial roads. Authorities urged drivers to exercise caution and use fog lights while traveling during early hours.
The cold wave has also led to precautionary measures across the education sector. Many schools adjusted timings or extended winter breaks to ensure student safety. Parents were advised to keep children adequately covered and limit outdoor exposure during peak cold hours, especially in the mornings.
Healthcare professionals reported a noticeable rise in cases related to cold exposure, including hypothermia symptoms, respiratory infections, and joint pain among the elderly. Hospitals and clinics have been put on alert, and citizens were advised to seek medical attention if they experience breathing difficulties, chest discomfort, or prolonged cold-related symptoms. Doctors also cautioned against the misuse of heating devices, emphasizing fire safety and adequate ventilation indoors.
The cold spell has had a visible impact on the city’s homeless population and daily wage workers, who are among the most affected during such extreme weather. Night shelters and warming centers saw increased occupancy as people sought refuge from the freezing temperatures. Voluntary organizations and local authorities distributed blankets, warm clothing, and hot meals across multiple locations to provide relief.
Power consumption in the city surged as households relied heavily on heaters, geysers, and electric blankets to cope with the cold. Markets witnessed increased demand for winter wear, woolens, and hot food items, while roadside tea stalls and food vendors reported higher sales during early mornings and late evenings.
Weather experts predict that while daytime temperatures may rise slightly due to sunshine, nights will continue to remain extremely cold for the next few days. Shallow to moderate fog is expected to persist during early morning hours, and residents have been advised to remain alert and follow weather advisories.
As Delhi endures this historic cold spell, authorities continue to monitor conditions closely. Citizens are urged to stay indoors when possible, dress in layers, and look out for those who may need assistance. With winter at its peak, the coming days will be critical in determining how long the capital remains under the grip of this intense cold wave.
