IMD flags fresh western disturbance from Jan 26; heavy snow, hail and storms likely across North and Central India
A new western disturbance is set to affect large parts of north, northwest and central India from January 26, the IMD said, warning of rain, snowfall, hailstorms, thunderstorms, gusty winds and fluctuating temperatures, with the most intense activity expected around January 27–28.
What’s changing from January 26
A fresh western disturbance is expected to start influencing northwest India from January 26, bringing an active spell of winter weather that includes rainfall, snowfall, hailstorms and thunderstorms. The India Meteorological Department (IMD), in its latest forecast bulletin, indicated the system could spread its impact beyond the hills into adjoining plains and parts of central India over the following days.
Where heavy weather is most likely
IMD has warned of heavy rain/snow at isolated places in Jammu & Kashmir and Himachal Pradesh, and the possibility of hailstorms in some hill and nearby plain districts. The forecast also notes squally marine conditions over far-southern coastal waters, signalling broader weather disruptions beyond the Himalayan belt.
Peak impact window: January 27–28
The most active phase is expected on January 27 and 28. Forecast guidance points to heavier spells over parts of the western Himalayan region, along with thunderstorms and gusty winds over adjoining plains. Hail activity is also expected in pockets, which can be damaging for crops, vehicles and exposed infrastructure.
Fog and cold wave conditions continue till Jan 26
Separately, dense to very dense fog conditions are expected to persist in pockets over Punjab, Haryana and Chandigarh through January 25–26, with dense fog also likely over parts of Himachal Pradesh and sub-Himalayan West Bengal & Sikkim. IMD also indicated isolated cold-wave conditions over parts of Himachal Pradesh, Punjab, Haryana-Chandigarh and Rajasthan during January 25–26.
Travel and safety advisory
- Mountain regions may see fresh heavy snowfall; check local advisories before travelling through high passes.
- In the plains, thunderstorms and gusty winds can disrupt road, rail and air movement—plan buffers for delays.
- Fog can sharply reduce early-morning visibility; use fog lights, slow down, and avoid risky overtakes.
- Fishermen and small-vessel operators should avoid rough sea areas flagged for squally conditions.
If conditions on the ground intensify, state disaster-response teams and district administrations typically issue localised warnings on road closures, school advisories and emergency helplines. Travellers should monitor official state weather updates and traffic advisories in addition to the IMD bulletin.