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Delhi Cold Wave Causes Travel Chaos and Health Concerns

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  Published in Science and Technology on Wednesday, January 14th 2026 at 22:20 GMT by TheHealthSite

Thursday, January 15th, 2026 - Delhi residents are facing continued hardship as a persistent cold wave grips the capital, impacting daily life and prompting ongoing health advisories. While schools have cautiously reopened after a brief closure, dense fog, frigid temperatures, and a lingering 'very poor' air quality index paint a challenging picture for the city. Further west, the India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued a red alert for Punjab, signaling a similar or potentially more severe weather situation. This situation highlights the increasing frequency and intensity of extreme weather events impacting North India.

A Deep Freeze and Reduced Visibility

As of this morning, Delhi's minimum temperature registered at a biting 6 degrees Celsius (43 degrees Fahrenheit). This persistent chill is exacerbated by the pervasive, dense fog which has dramatically reduced visibility across the region. The fog isn't merely an inconvenience; it's a significant disruption to transportation infrastructure. Flights have been delayed and, in some instances, cancelled, causing considerable travel chaos for those attempting to enter or leave the capital. Rail services are also experiencing disruptions, with trains running behind schedule or facing temporary suspensions.

The severity of the fog has prompted concerns about road safety as well. While not explicitly mentioned in initial reports, anecdotal evidence suggests increased traffic congestion and slower travel times across the city's roads.

Air Quality Remains a Concern

The cold wave isn't just about temperature; it's also contributing to the city's already-concerning air quality. The Air Quality Index (AQI) remains firmly in the 'very poor' category, a persistent issue for Delhi. The conditions favor the trapping of pollutants near the ground, hindering dispersion and creating a hazardous environment for residents, especially those with respiratory conditions. Experts point to stagnant air and low wind speeds - hallmarks of a cold wave - as key factors in maintaining this poor air quality.

Schools Reopen with Caution, Health Advisories Issued

The decision to reopen schools marks a tentative return to normalcy, but authorities are urging parents to prioritize their children's health and safety. Guidance includes ensuring children are dressed in multiple layers of warm clothing, have access to adequate hydration, and are not exposed to prolonged periods outdoors. Concerns remain about the potential impact of the cold and poor air quality on children's developing immune systems.

Health officials are broadly reinforcing the same precautions for the entire population: layered clothing, adequate hydration, and minimizing exposure to the cold. The elderly and those with pre-existing health conditions are being urged to take extra care and stay indoors whenever possible. Respiratory protection, such as masks, is also being recommended, especially for those with respiratory ailments.

Punjab on High Alert

The red alert issued for Punjab is a critical indicator of the broader weather pattern. It suggests that conditions in the neighboring state are either similar to or potentially worse than those in Delhi, and emphasizes the need for heightened preparedness and proactive measures. This alert is likely prompting local authorities in Punjab to increase resources for emergency services, and disseminate warnings to vulnerable populations.

Looking Ahead: A Persistent Pattern?

The IMD's forecast for the next few days indicates that these cold wave conditions are expected to persist. This raises concerns about the long-term impact on the region's economy, public health, and infrastructure. Climate scientists suggest that the frequency and intensity of cold wave events in North India are likely to increase due to broader climate change trends, making adaptation and resilience strategies increasingly crucial. Future reporting will focus on the socio-economic impacts of this persistent weather and explore long-term solutions to mitigate the risks associated with extreme cold events.