Delhi-NCR and many areas of North India are expected to experience exceptionally cold weather this year. According to weather experts, the La Niña effect, powerful western disturbances, and increased fog by the end of 2025 could make this winter even harsher than before, especially in areas like Delhi, Gurgaon, Noida, Faridabad, and Ghaziabad.
Increased Cold Waves, Drastic Temperature Drop
The Times of India reports that between December 2025 and February 2026, the region will experience frequent cold waves, and minimum temperatures could drop well below normal.
What is La Niña?
La Niña is a climate phenomenon in which the sea surface in the central and eastern Pacific Ocean cools. It is part of the ENSO cycle, the flip side of which, El Niño, is known for warmer ocean temperatures.
According to the Deccan Herald, La Niña typically results in colder and wetter winters in Asia, especially in northern and northwest India. While El Niño brought warm and dry weather earlier this year, La Niña could bring the exact opposite effect.
IMD Warning: ‘La Niña Watch’ Issued
The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued a ‘La Niña Watch’ regarding a possible La Niña condition. This could cause temperatures in northern India to drop below normal, increase the frequency of cold waves, and lead to prolonged dense fog. Additionally, western disturbances could become more active, bringing snowfall in the Himalayas and cold winds to the plains.
In a statement to India Today, meteorologists said that if La Niña combines with other local weather systems, January 2026 could prove to be the coldest January in years. Minimum temperatures in Delhi-NCR could drop by 2–3 degrees Celsius during this period. Delhi and surrounding areas will face severe cold. The effects of the cold will be felt most severely in cities like Delhi, Gurgaon, Noida, Faridabad, and Ghaziabad. According to the IMD, fog will persist for a longer period this time, impacting traffic and public life.
Increased Health Risks
Experts have warned that the severe cold can be especially fatal for the elderly, young children, and those suffering from respiratory diseases. Air pollution in Delhi is severe every year, and this year’s increased cold could make the situation worse.
Historic Winter Warning
This is not the first time the capital has experienced severe cold due to the effects of La Niña. In the winter of 2020–21, Delhi also recorded the lowest minimum temperature in the last 15 years.
Peak Winter: December to February
According to meteorologists, temperatures may begin to drop in late November or early December, with winter reaching its peak between mid-December and mid-February. Experts believe that January 2026 could become the coldest January of this century.
The need for preparation
Citizens in Delhi-NCR and North India have been warned to be fully prepared for the cold, as this winter could be not only intense but also extremely challenging.
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