Digital New Guru Environment Desk:
Cold-wave warning & weather issues in North India
The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued a cold-wave warning for parts of North India, including the Delhi-NCR region, Haryana, Uttar Pradesh, East Rajasthan and adjoining central states for the period around 10–12 November 2025.
- Minimum temperatures in many places are already well below the normal for this time of the year. For example, Delhi’s Safdarjung station recorded a minimum of 10.4 °C (≈4 °C below normal), and in Aya Nagar the low was 9.9 °C.
- The IMD bulletin indicates that cold wave to severe cold-wave conditions are very likely in isolated pockets of Haryana, Delhi, East Rajasthan, Chhattisgarh, Madhya Pradesh and Uttar Pradesh from 11 to 15 November.
- The cause: a combination of clear skies, dry north-westerly winds, and a western disturbance setting in earlier than usual—which means faster night-time cooling.
Why It Matters
This early chill has several knock-on effects:
- Health risks: Sudden dips in temperature increase risk of respiratory illnesses, especially among the elderly, children, and those without proper shelter. The IMD advisory states: “Do not ignore shivering; it is the first sign that the body is losing heat.”
- Agriculture & livestock: Young crops and horticulture beds are vulnerable to cold damage; livestock may need additional protection. For example, the agromet advisory recommends covering nurseries and providing dry bedding for animals.
- Urban infrastructure & mobility: Cooler mornings with clear skies can lead to shallow fog, reduced visibility on roads and railways. While not yet reported at major scale, the risk remains.
- Air quality interactions: In places like Delhi, low temperatures plus stagnant air can trap pollution, making air quality worse. Although not explicitly detailed in every report, the combination is concerning and has been flagged by weather/air-quality analysts.
What’s Expected Next
- Over the coming few days (11-15 November), the minimum temperature is expected to stay 2-5 °C below normal in many areas of north and central India.
- Pockets of cold-wave to severe cold-wave conditions (defined by IMD as minimum ≤10 °C in plains or a departure of ≥ 4.5 °C) may occur in isolated regions.
- Weather in the south is contrasting: while north braces for cold, states like Tamil Nadu and Kerala are expected to see heavy rainfall and thunderstorms. This dynamic of “cold in the north, wet in the south” is typical of the transitional season.
Advice for Residents
- Dress warm: wear several layers of light woollen clothing rather than one heavy item; cover head, neck, hands and feet since heat is lost rapidly from those parts.
- Limit outdoor exposure in the early morning and night, especially for children, older adults, and those with health complications.
- Ensure adequate warmth and insulation in homes: fix any leaks, use blankets or bedding, and keep dry.
- For farmers and livestock owners: check crop covers, provide dry bedding for animals, consider light irrigation in the evening (where advised) to keep soil warmer.
- Drivers and commuters: anticipate possible shallow fog or mist in early mornings, especially in rural and peri-urban segments; allow extra travel time.
Regional Highlights
- Delhi-NCR: Minimums dipping into the 9-10 °C range in some localities; general forecast is for 9-12 °C in the next 1-2 days.
- East Rajasthan & West Madhya Pradesh: Already recording cold-wave or near cold-wave conditions; minimum temps <10 °C in some pockets.
- Haryana & Uttar Pradesh: Forecast to face cold-wave spells in isolated areas from 11-14 November.
Broader Context
This early-onset cold phase might signal the start of winter in the plains earlier than in recent years. While this is not necessarily an extreme event yet, the pattern underscores the changing weather behaviour: warmer monsoon withdrawal, earlier dry spells, and faster cooling at night because of clear skies. The IMD bulletin and news coverage are treating it as a notable event because of the departure from normal rather than a deep freeze yet.
Final Word
If you’re in North India right now, expect crisp mornings, cooler afternoons and chilly nights for the next several days. It’s a reminder that the winter season is making an early appearance. While it may bring some freshness, it also brings vulnerabilities—especially for health, agriculture and mobility. Keeping warm, staying informed and planning accordingly will help navigate this cold phase smoothly.
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