According to a Times of India (TOI) Lifestyle Desk report dated January 19, 2026, the India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued a detailed weather forecast for northern India. The region is set to experience a mix of rain, snowfall, dense fog, thunderstorms, and cold wave conditions over the coming days.

🌦️ Active Weather Spell Ahead

A dynamic weather pattern driven by two western disturbances is expected to impact northern India between January 19 and January 24, 2026, bringing significant changes across hill states and plains alike.

❄️ Rain and Snowfall in the Hills

Western Himalayan Region

The Western Himalayan states, including Himachal Pradesh, are likely to witness:

  • Scattered light to moderate rain and snowfall from January 19 to 21

  • More intense and widespread precipitation between January 22 and 24

  • Heavy rain and snowfall on January 23, especially in higher reaches

Uttarakhand

  • Precipitation is expected to increase notably on January 23 and 24

  • Snowfall in higher altitudes and rain in lower regions may affect travel plans

🌧️ Rainfall in the Plains

Residents of the northern plains should prepare for wet conditions:

  • Punjab, Haryana, Chandigarh, Uttar Pradesh, and Rajasthan may receive scattered light to moderate rainfall from January 22 to 24

⛈️ Thunderstorm Alert

IMD has also warned of thunderstorms accompanied by lightning:

  • Punjab, Haryana, Chandigarh, Delhi, and Rajasthan on January 22 and 23

  • Uttarakhand on January 23 and 24

🌫️ Fog and Cold Conditions Persist

Dense Fog Warning

  • Dense to very dense fog is highly likely in parts of Uttar Pradesh on January 19

  • Foggy conditions may persist in isolated pockets till January 20

  • Bihar, Haryana, Chandigarh, Delhi, Punjab, and West Rajasthan may also experience isolated fog

❄️ Cold Wave Conditions

  • Himachal Pradesh may face isolated cold wave conditions from January 19 to 21

  • Odisha could experience cold waves on January 19

  • Cold day conditions are expected in parts of Uttar Pradesh on January 19 and 20

🌡️ Temperature Trends: Relief Ahead

Despite the chilly start, some relief is in sight:

  • Northwest India may see minimum temperatures rise by 3–5°C between January 23 and 25

  • Central India and Maharashtra are also expected to witness a 2–4°C temperature increase starting after January 19

🚨 Public Advisory from Authorities

🚗 Travel & Transport

  • Dense fog may disrupt road, rail, and air traffic

  • Travelers are advised to:

    • Use fog lights

    • Drive cautiously

    • Check travel schedules in advance

🧣 Health & Safety

  • Avoid unnecessary outdoor exposure during extreme cold and fog

  • Stay updated with daily weather forecasts

  • Extra caution is advised for those traveling to Himachal Pradesh and Uttarakhand

📌 Final Word

With changing weather conditions expected across northern India, staying informed and prepared is crucial. Whether you’re commuting daily or planning a hill trip, keep a close watch on IMD updates to stay safe during this active winter spell.