New Delhi, January 13, 2026 – Delhi continued to shiver under an intense cold wave for the third consecutive day on Tuesday, as the mercury plunged to 3°C in key areas of the city, marking the lowest January temperature in three years. Alongside the biting cold, air pollution worsened dramatically, with the 24-hour average Air Quality Index (AQI) reaching 342, placing the national capital firmly in the “very poor” category. Residents are facing harsh winter conditions, dense fog, and dangerously polluted air, creating a challenging environment for commuters, outdoor workers, and vulnerable populations alike.

Temperature Trends Across Delhi

According to the India Meteorological Department (IMD), minimum temperatures across Delhi on Tuesday fell sharply. The Lodhi Road observatory recorded 3°C, Ayanagar 3.2°C, Palam 4°C, and Ridge 4.4°C. Safdarjung, Delhi’s representative weather observatory, recorded a minimum of 3.2°C on Monday.

A cold wave is declared when the minimum temperature falls below 10°C and the departure from normal is 4.5°C or more. Alternatively, a reading of 4°C or lower at any weather station also qualifies as a cold wave. By both measures, Delhi’s conditions meet the criteria for a severe cold wave, which is compounded by clear skies, persistent northwesterly winds, and radiative cooling at night.

Weather experts have noted that the city has not seen such low January temperatures in three years, highlighting the intensity of the current cold spell. The mercury drop is occurring despite daytime temperatures rising to relatively moderate levels, as radiative cooling during clear nights causes rapid heat loss from the surface.

Frost in the Suburbs and Surrounding Areas

The cold wave has not been limited to central Delhi alone. Suburban areas and neighbouring regions of Gurugram and other parts of the National Capital Region (NCR) have experienced frost and sub-zero readings. Private weather stations reported -0.9°C in the suburbs of Gurugram, while Sainik Farms in New Delhi recorded 1.1°C on Monday. Such frost conditions, rare for Delhi in January, indicate severe cold at ground level, posing risks for crops, plants, and even water pipelines in affected areas.

Impact of Western Disturbances on the Weather

Meteorologists explain that while the current cold wave has persisted due to clear skies and strong northwesterly winds, this pattern is expected to change after January 15 with the arrival of a series of western disturbances. Ashwary Tiwari, a private weatherman who runs IndiaMetSky, said that the first western disturbance will be mild but will alter the wind pattern over the northern plains, preventing cold northwesterly winds from blowing unchecked.

Skymet Weather vice president Mahesh Palawat explained that these disturbances will primarily impact the mountains, bringing snowfall to higher elevations, while the effect over the plains will be minimal. However, the shift in wind direction to southwesterly will reduce the wind chill factor, offering some relief from the intense cold.

IMD officials have forecasted a gradual rise in minimum temperatures starting from Thursday, once these disturbances influence the plains. Until then, Delhi is expected to continue experiencing below-normal temperatures, with minimum readings remaining around 3–4°C.

Air Quality Woes Amid Cold Wave

While Delhi battles low temperatures, the city is simultaneously confronting hazardous air pollution. As of 9 AM on Tuesday, the 24-hour average AQI stood at 342, a sharp deterioration from 297 recorded at 4 PM on Monday. The Air Quality Early Warning System (EWS) for Delhi has indicated that AQI levels are likely to remain in the “very poor” category until at least January 22.

Extremely poor air quality can exacerbate respiratory and cardiovascular issues, particularly among children, the elderly, and those with pre-existing conditions. Prolonged exposure can lead to coughing, wheezing, throat irritation, and increased risk of infections. Authorities have urged residents to avoid outdoor activities, especially early in the morning and late at night when air pollution peaks, and to use masks or air purifiers indoors.

The combination of cold temperatures and poor air quality has made Delhi one of the most inhospitable major cities in the world during winter. Cold weather encourages the use of firewood, heaters, and diesel generators, which further contribute to particulate matter in the air. Additionally, emissions from vehicles and industrial activity, coupled with stagnant atmospheric conditions during cold waves, intensify pollution levels.

Health Advisory and Precautions

Medical experts have issued advisories to residents, stressing the need for caution during this dual challenge of severe cold and pollution. They recommend:

• Minimising outdoor activities, especially for children, senior citizens, and patients with respiratory or heart conditions.
• Wearing multiple layers of warm clothing and covering exposed skin.
• Using air purifiers indoors and avoiding unnecessary exposure to outdoor pollutants.
• Keeping windows closed during peak pollution hours.
• Consuming warm fluids and nutrient-rich foods to strengthen immunity.
• Monitoring health closely and seeking medical assistance in case of persistent cough, breathing difficulties, or chest discomfort.

Authorities have also warned that dense fog accompanying the cold wave may lead to reduced visibility on roads, causing slower traffic and higher risk of accidents. Delhi Airport and Indian Railways are expected to face operational challenges during early mornings, with delays likely for flights and trains due to poor visibility.

Regional Impact of Cold Wave

The cold wave is not restricted to Delhi alone. Across northern plains, several cities have reported near-freezing temperatures, including Hisar (2.6°C), Amritsar (1.1°C), Churu (1.3°C), Karnal (3.5°C), and Meerut (4.5°C). Meanwhile, northern hill stations have remained comparatively warmer due to cloud cover induced by western disturbances, with Mussoorie at 7.7°C and Shimla at 8.8°C.

The stark contrast between plains and hills illustrates the role of radiative cooling in amplifying cold wave conditions in low-lying areas. While hills benefit from heat retention under cloud cover, plains experience rapid night-time cooling due to clear skies and calm conditions.

Looking Ahead

Meteorologists expect cold wave conditions to continue for a few more days, with minimum temperatures remaining below normal until the impact of western disturbances begins. These disturbances are projected to bring snowfall to higher altitudes in the mountains and improve wind patterns in the plains, offering a slight reprieve from the biting cold.

However, air pollution is expected to persist at high levels through the third week of January, requiring residents to remain cautious and limit exposure. Authorities continue to monitor weather and air quality closely, issuing advisories and recommending safety measures for the public.

Conclusion

Delhi’s residents are facing a challenging winter in 2026, with minimum temperatures plunging to 3°C, frost forming in suburban areas, and the air quality deteriorating to the “very poor” category. The combination of cold wave, dense fog, and hazardous pollution has disrupted daily life, travel, and health. While mild relief is expected later in the week due to incoming western disturbances, authorities and residents must remain vigilant, following health advisories, avoiding outdoor exposure, and taking precautions to mitigate the effects of extreme winter weather and air pollution.

The ongoing cold wave serves as a stark reminder of the seasonal extremes experienced by northern plains cities like Delhi, and highlights the need for preparedness, public awareness, and long-term measures to improve air quality and urban resilience against harsh winter conditions.