IMD Travel Advisory for Cold Wave and Fog

Large parts of India are set to face harsh winter conditions starting January 6, according to an IMD travel advisory for cold wave and fog. The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has warned of cold waves, cold days, dense to very dense fog, and heavy rainfall in several regions.

Based on the All India Weather Summary and Forecast Bulletin released on January 5, 2026, the coming days will be particularly challenging for northern, central, and eastern India. Meanwhile, southern states should prepare for intense rainfall and thunderstorms.

Travellers are advised to stay updated on weather conditions and plan accordingly during this India winter travel weather update period.

The India Meteorological Department has issued an IMD alert for travellers in India, warning of severe cold wave conditions starting January 6 across North and Central India.

Affected States:

The IMD weather forecast for traveller indicates cold waves will hit Punjab, Haryana, Chandigarh, Delhi, Rajasthan, Chhattisgarh, and Jharkhand. Severe conditions will continue until at least January 9, extending over east Rajasthan through January 10.

Cold day conditions are expected in Bihar, Madhya Pradesh, West Bengal, Sikkim, and western Rajasthan on January 6-7.

Temperature Drop:

According to the IMD weather warning for Indian states, minimum temperatures across northwest India will drop by 2-3 degrees Celsius from January 6 to 9. Central and eastern India will see similar declines on January 6-7, indicating a sustained cold spell.

India Winter Travel Weather Update - Fog Alert Across States:

IMD predicts cold wave and dense fog conditions that will significantly impact travel across multiple states.

From January 6, dense to very dense fog is expected in isolated areas of Punjab, Haryana, Chandigarh, eastern Uttar Pradesh, and Madhya Pradesh. These conditions will persist till January 8 or beyond, with Punjab, Haryana, and Chandigarh experiencing very dense fog until January 10.

Dense fog is also forecast for Uttarakhand, Rajasthan, Himachal Pradesh, western and eastern Uttar Pradesh, extending up to January 12 in some areas. Eastern and northeastern states, including Bihar (till January 12), Assam, Meghalaya, and Nagaland, Manipur, Mizoram, and Tripura (till January 10), will also be affected.

Travel Impact:

The Indian states under IMD cold wave and heavy rain alert face significant disruptions to road, rail, and air travel during the early morning hours. Ground frost is also likely in Uttarakhand on January 6. Travellers should plan accordingly and allow extra time for journeys.

The IMD weather forecast for travellers in India warns of contrasting weather patterns across the country starting January 6.

Western Himalayas will see light to moderate rain and snowfall, with Himachal Pradesh and Uttarakhand expecting precipitation for the next three days. Higher-altitude areas may face road blockages and poor visibility.

Southern India is bracing for heavy rainfall and thunderstorms. Tamil Nadu will experience light to moderate rain on January 8-9, intensifying from January 9 onwards. Heavy rainfall is expected in Tamil Nadu, Puducherry, Karaikal, Kerala, and Mahe on January 9-10, accompanied by thunderstorms and lightning.

Coastal areas will see strong squally winds of 35-45 kmph, gusting to 55 kmph on January 6, particularly along the Sri Lanka coast and the Bay of Bengal.

Winter travel precautions during IMD weather warnings are essential for staying safe on the road:

1. Slow down and use fog lights -When driving in dense fog, reduce your speed and turn on your fog lights or low beams. Never use high beams as they'll just bounce back and make it harder to see.
2. Keep your distance -Leave plenty of space between you and the car ahead. If you can barely see, pull over to a safe spot like a parking lot and wait it out with your hazard lights on.
3. Listen for other vehicles -Roll down your window slightly to hear approaching cars or emergency vehicles, especially when visibility is extremely poor.
4. Layer up before heading out -Wear multiple layers of loose clothing, a warm hat, waterproof boots, and mittens. Keep extra blankets and warm clothes in your car just in case.
5. Prep your vehicle -Make sure your gas tank is full, tires are properly inflated, and your heater and defroster are working well before you leave.
6. Pack an emergency kit -Keep water, snacks, a flashlight, phone charger, and basic first-aid supplies in your vehicle at all times.
7. Share your plans -Let someone know where you're going and when you expect to arrive. Check the weather forecast before leaving, and if conditions look dangerous, consider staying home.

Bottom line: If travel isn't urgent, it's better to wait for conditions to improve rather than risk it.