IMD warns of rain and snow in western Himalayas, cold-wave pockets in plains from Jan 27
A fresh western disturbance is set to trigger widespread rain and snowfall across the western Himalayan region, while parts of north and northwest India brace for cold-wave and cold-day conditions, dense fog, and isolated thunderstorms.
The India Meteorological Department (IMD) said winter weather is likely to turn more active from Tuesday, January 27, 2026, with a fresh western disturbance expected to bring widespread rain and snowfall over the western Himalayas and unsettled conditions across adjoining plains. The system is forecast to impact Jammu & Kashmir, Ladakh, Himachal Pradesh and Uttarakhand, with precipitation likely to intensify in spells as the disturbance moves eastward.
For the plains of north and northwest India, the IMD outlook includes isolated thunderstorms, lightning and gusty winds in some pockets, along with the continuing risk of dense fog during night and early morning hours. The department also flagged cold-wave and cold-day conditions in parts of the Indo‑Gangetic plains, warning that temperatures may remain low enough to disrupt daily routines, travel and outdoor work—particularly in areas already experiencing persistent chill.
Along coastal waters and nearby seas, the IMD bulletin mentioned squally winds at times, a factor that can affect small fishing craft and short-haul marine operations. Residents in hill districts have been advised to watch for local advisories related to snowfall, while commuters in the plains may need to plan for reduced visibility due to fog, especially on highways and at airports during early hours.
The IMD also indicated that another round of unsettled weather could arrive by around January 30, 2026, as an additional western disturbance is projected to approach northwest India. Authorities typically recommend monitoring official IMD updates for district-level warnings, particularly for hill travel, school operations, and emergency services planning.
IMD’s latest winter outlook points to rain and snow in the western Himalayas from Jan 27, with cold-wave pockets and dense fog risks in parts of the plains.