India's capital, Delhi, has been gripped by an intense cold wave, recording its chilliest December day in six years. The city's maximum temperature dropped significantly, marking a notable weather event as the year drew to a close.
IMD Data Reveals Chilling Figures
According to the latest data released by the India Meteorological Department (IMD), the maximum temperature recorded in Delhi on December 31, 2025, was exceptionally low. This reading represents the coldest day the city has experienced in the month of December since 2019.
The IMD's records indicate that the last instance of a lower maximum temperature in December occurred on December 31, 2019. On that day, the daytime high had plummeted to a mere 9.4 degrees Celsius. The recent temperature, while not specified in the initial report, is confirmed to be the lowest since that 2019 benchmark, underscoring a significant return of severe winter conditions to the northern plains of India.
Context and Seasonal Impact
This sharp dip in the day's maximum temperature is a critical metric during a cold wave, as it indicates that even the warmest part of the day offered little respite from the biting cold. Such conditions have a wide-ranging impact on daily life in the national capital.
The consequences of this severe weather are multifaceted:
- Health Advisory: Residents, especially the vulnerable populations, are advised to take necessary precautions against cold-related illnesses.
- Daily Disruptions: The cold wave affects morning schedules, traffic, and outdoor activities.
- Agricultural Concerns: While primarily an urban report, such extreme temperatures can also influence the broader regional climate patterns.
A Look Back and the Road Ahead
The recurrence of a December day this cold, after a six-year gap, highlights the variable nature of winter patterns in North India. It serves as a stark reminder of the region's vulnerability to extreme weather events, even as debates on climate change and shifting weather cycles continue.
As per the IMD's update published on December 31, 2025, at 18:26 IST, this data point becomes a key part of Delhi's meteorological history. Citizens and authorities alike will be monitoring the forecasts closely to see if this marks the peak of the current cold spell or if even lower temperatures are on the horizon in the coming days of January.
