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:
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Scattered light to moderate rain and snowfall from January 19 to 21
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More intense and widespread precipitation between January 22 and 24
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Heavy rain and snowfall on January 23, especially in higher reaches
Uttarakhand
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Precipitation is expected to increase notably on January 23 and 24
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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:
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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:
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Punjab, Haryana, Chandigarh, Delhi, and Rajasthan on January 22 and 23
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Uttarakhand on January 23 and 24
🌫️ Fog and Cold Conditions Persist
Dense Fog Warning
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Dense to very dense fog is highly likely in parts of Uttar Pradesh on January 19
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Foggy conditions may persist in isolated pockets till January 20
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Bihar, Haryana, Chandigarh, Delhi, Punjab, and West Rajasthan may also experience isolated fog
❄️ Cold Wave Conditions
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Himachal Pradesh may face isolated cold wave conditions from January 19 to 21
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Odisha could experience cold waves on January 19
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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:
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Northwest India may see minimum temperatures rise by 3–5°C between January 23 and 25
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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
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Dense fog may disrupt road, rail, and air traffic
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Travelers are advised to:
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Use fog lights
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Drive cautiously
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Check travel schedules in advance
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🧣 Health & Safety
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Avoid unnecessary outdoor exposure during extreme cold and fog
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Stay updated with daily weather forecasts
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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.