North India Weather Alert: Dense Fog, Severe Cold Waves & Himalayan Snow Forecast for February 2, 2026

North India, as February begins, continues to experience the full effects of winter. On February 2, 2026, dense fog blanketed major cities, while western disturbances brought snow to the Himalayan regions. From Delhi to Punjab and Himachal Pradesh, residents woke up to chilly temperatures and limited visibility. Understanding these weather patterns is crucial for commuters, travelers, and outdoor workers, as fog and cold waves significantly affect transportation, health, and daily life.

Dense Fog in the Northern Plains

The plains of North India, including Delhi, Haryana, and Punjab, witnessed dense fog during the early morning hours. Visibility dropped drastically, making road travel hazardous. The India Meteorological Department (IMD) issued fog advisories warning commuters to exercise caution. Flight operations at Delhi’s IGI Airport were affected, causing delays. Dense fog was most prominent between 5 a.m. and 9 a.m., gradually lifting as the sun rose.

Causes of Fog Understanding Radiation Cooling

Fog forms when air near the surface cools rapidly to the dew point, causing water vapor to condense into tiny droplets. On February 2, calm and clear winter nights allowed radiation cooling to intensify, creating the perfect conditions for fog formation. Moisture in the air, combined with low wind speeds, resulted in prolonged dense fog, especially in low-lying areas and river valleys.

Temperature Trends Across the Plains

Minimum temperatures in Delhi hovered in the single digits Celsius, while daytime highs reached around 20–24°C. Similar patterns were observed in Haryana, Punjab, and Uttar Pradesh. Such temperature differences between day and night are typical in late winter and contribute to fog formation during early morning hours. Residents reported chilly mornings, while afternoons offered slight warmth under partially cloudy skies.

Western Disturbances and Himalayan Snow

Western disturbances, low-pressure systems traveling from the Mediterranean, influenced weather patterns across the Himalayan states. On February 2, these systems triggered light to moderate rain and snowfall in Jammu & Kashmir, Himachal Pradesh, and Uttarakhand. Snowfall increased snow depth, lowered temperatures, and occasionally disrupted local travel in hilly terrains. Western disturbances are common in winter and bring sudden changes in weather to the northern regions.

Fog Impact on Transportation

Dense fog caused significant disruptions across road, rail, and air networks. Commuters faced slowed traffic, while long-distance trains and flights experienced delays. Authorities urged travelers to leave early, use fog lights, and maintain safe distances. Roads connecting Delhi to neighboring states like Haryana and Punjab were particularly affected, highlighting the need for careful driving during foggy mornings.

Air Quality Concerns Amid Fog

Winter fog often traps pollutants, worsening air quality. On February 2, Delhi’s AQI (Air Quality Index) entered the poor category in several areas. Combined exposure to fog and smog increases respiratory issues, particularly for children, the elderly, and those with pre-existing lung conditions. Public health advisories recommended limiting outdoor activity during peak fog hours.

Fog and Visibility in Punjab & Haryana

Punjab and Haryana also recorded dense fog, especially in low-lying areas. Visibility dropped to below 200 meters in several towns, creating hazardous driving conditions. Local authorities issued advisories for motorists, while schools and businesses encouraged flexible start times. The fog persisted through mid-morning before gradually dispersing under sunlight.

Fog and Cold Waves

In western Uttar Pradesh, fog was dense, with early morning temperatures dipping significantly. Cold winds amplified the chill, leading to frost in agricultural fields. Farmers were advised to protect winter crops from frost, and residents were cautioned about prolonged exposure to cold during early morning hours. Daytime temperatures were moderately warmer, but the transition from night to day remained stark.

Foggy Mornings and Chilly Nights

Western Rajasthan experienced patchy fog, especially near rivers and low-lying areas. Nights were cold due to clear skies and calm winds, while daytime saw partial sunshine. Travel advisories were issued for highways connecting major cities, and local authorities monitored road safety during the peak fog periods.

Bihar and Eastern Plains Weather

Bihar experienced fog and cold winds across the state. Morning temperatures were low, with some areas experiencing light frost. While the day warmed slightly, early morning fog impacted road and rail travel. Meteorologists highlighted the continuation of these conditions over the next two days, emphasizing caution for travelers and commuters.

Snowfall and Cold Temperatures

Himachal Pradesh witnessed light to moderate snowfall at higher altitudes. Towns like Shimla and Manali reported snow accumulation, making roads slippery and increasing the need for winter travel precautions. Snowfall also contributed to colder temperatures across the state, affecting both residents and tourists visiting hill stations.

Jammu & Kashmir

In Jammu & Kashmir, western disturbances brought scattered snowfall to the region. Valley areas experienced sub-zero temperatures, while snowfall on higher slopes disrupted local transport. Residents were advised to prepare for continued winter conditions, with authorities monitoring roads and issuing snow clearance updates where necessary.

Uttarakhand Weather Overview

Uttarakhand recorded light snow in the hills and fog in valley areas. Cold winds persisted, especially in the morning and evening hours, with temperatures remaining near freezing at higher elevations. Western disturbances were expected to continue influencing weather patterns, causing intermittent rain or snow in the coming days.

Health Impacts of Winter Fog and Cold Waves

Exposure to cold air and dense fog can exacerbate respiratory issues, increase susceptibility to colds and flu, and trigger circulatory problems. Residents are advised to wear warm clothing in layers, avoid prolonged outdoor exposure, and ensure adequate heating in homes. Medical experts emphasized caution for children, the elderly, and those with pre-existing conditions.

Agricultural and Economic Impacts

Fog and frost can adversely affect winter crops in northern India, delaying harvesting and impacting soil conditions. Farmers are advised to monitor temperature fluctuations closely and take preventive measures against frost damage. Cold weather also affects outdoor labor productivity and energy consumption in households.

Travel Advisories and Safety Measures

For safe navigation during dense fog, travelers should use fog lights, maintain safe distances on roads, and allow extra time for commutes. Flight passengers are advised to check status updates and plan accordingly. Winter preparedness includes dressing in warm layers, protecting sensitive crops, and monitoring daily weather forecasts from trusted sources such as the IMD.

Staying Prepared Amid Winter Challenges

On February 2, 2026, North India experienced a mix of dense fog, chilly mornings, and Himalayan snow. While plains endured limited visibility and cold winds, hilly regions faced snow and freezing conditions. Awareness, preparedness, and timely adherence to advisories are essential for safety and comfort during these winter months. By understanding weather patterns, residents and travelers can mitigate risks posed by fog and cold waves across North India.