The IMD has warned of cold wave conditions over parts of central, eastern and northern peninsular India from December 9, and expects the chill to extend to northwest and western India from December 10 through December 12. Dense fog is also likely in isolated pockets of Assam, Manipur, eastern Uttar Pradesh and Odisha in the coming days, raising concerns over morning visibility and transport disruptions.
Meteorologists forecast a gradual fall of about 2°C in minimum temperatures across the plains of northwest India over the next 48 hours, followed by a potential 2–4°C rise after three days as the system eases slightly. Residents are advised to follow local advisories and take precautions for vulnerable groups.
Snowfall and hazardous travel in mountain passes
Fresh snow fell over higher reaches of central Kashmir and upper Himachal, making routes such as the Srinagar–Leh highway slippery in places. Rohtang Pass near Manali recorded snowfall, with authorities reporting slippery stretches and precautionary closures where necessary. Local administrations closed certain high-altitude stretches as a standard winter safety measure.
District emergency teams have issued advisories for motorists and tourists to carry chains and warm clothing; mountain rescue and road-clearing crews were placed on alert to manage disruptions. Travelers on affected routes should verify road status before departure and heed police and local administration instructions.
How the cold wave is spreading state-wise outlook
The IMD bulletin indicates isolated cold-wave conditions are likely in Madhya Pradesh, Chhattisgarh and Odisha from December 10–13, with Punjab expected to see similar conditions from December 11–13. Vidarbha, Telangana, Haryana, Chandigarh, Delhi, north Rajasthan, Madhya Maharashtra and Marathwada are slated to be affected on varying dates through December 13. Dense morning fog is expected to lower visibility in some eastern regions.
Local administrations in affected states have been advised to monitor power, water and health services for the elderly and children, and to ensure anti-hypothermia measures are in place at shelters and medical centres.
Human impact and advisories
Temperatures in Srinagar fell to around −2.5°C overnight, while Shopian was the valley’s coldest point at −4.2°C. Slippery roads and dense fog disrupted routine activities in several low-lying and valley towns, and social media carried images of dustings of snow and foggy mornings across cities.
Authorities advise residents to keep warm, limit early-morning travel where possible and to check weather updates via the IMD portal for real-time alerts. Those in agriculture and outdoor occupations should safeguard livestock and crops against overnight freezes. For official bulletin updates visit the IMD website.
Preparedness and what to watch next
With the cold spell expected to linger in pockets, authorities are likely to keep contingency teams ready for transport, power and medical emergencies. Tourists planning hill trips are urged to check weather and road-status updates and carry emergency kits. The situation remains fluid any incoming western disturbance or change in wind pattern could alter the intensity or timing of the chill.
For official weather warnings and advisories, see the India Meteorological Department (IMD) website and follow local disaster management updates.