North India Weather Update: Rain and Thunderstorms Sweep Through Delhi, Punjab, and Haryana

New Delhi, january 23, 2026: Residents across Northwest India woke up to a significant shift in weather this morning, Friday, January 23, 2026, as an active western disturbance brought widespread rain and thunderstorms to the region. The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued several alerts, signaling a transition from the recent record-warmth to a sharp winter chill.

Delhi-NCR: Orange Alert and Temperature Dip

The National Capital Region (NCR) experienced moderate rainfall and lightning during the early morning hours. This sudden change follows just a day after Delhi recorded its warmest January day in seven years, with temperatures hitting 27.1°C.

The IMD has issued an Orange Alert for Delhi, forecasting:

• Multiple Rain Spells: Intermittent light to moderate rain is expected to continue throughout the day and into the evening.
• Gusty Winds: Residents should prepare for strong surface winds reaching speeds of 30–40 kmph, gusting up to 60 kmph.
• Mercury Drop: Maximum temperatures are projected to tumble to around 18-20°C, a nearly 7-degree drop from yesterday’s peak.

While the rain has caused minor waterlogging in low-lying areas and slowed morning commutes due to shallow fog, it has brought a much-needed marginal improvement to the city’s air quality, pushing the AQI slightly down within the “Poor” category.

Heavy Rain in Punjab and Hail Warning for Haryana

The weather system is particularly intense in the neighboring states of Punjab and Haryana. The IMD has warned of heavy rainfall in isolated pockets of Punjab today.

• Punjab: Fairly widespread light to moderate rainfall is lashing districts including Patiala, Ludhiana, and Jalandhar.
• Haryana: A Yellow Alert is in place across Haryana and Chandigarh. Beyond the rain, there is a high probability of hailstorm activity in parts of Haryana and Western Uttar Pradesh today, which has raised concerns for standing crops.

The Hill States: Heavy Snowfall

Further north, the Western Himalayan region is bearing the brunt of the disturbance. Heavy snowfall is predicted for the higher reaches of Himachal Pradesh and Uttarakhand, while the Kashmir Valley is on alert for isolated heavy rain and snow. Authorities have cautioned travelers about potential road closures and reduced visibility in these high-altitude zones.

Forecast for the Weekend

As the western disturbance moves eastward, the rain is expected to subside by Saturday. However, the IMD predicts a follow-up of dense to very dense fog across Punjab, Haryana, and Delhi starting January 24.

Temperatures are expected to remain low for the next 48 hours before a gradual rise begins early next week. Residents are advised to stay updated with local weather bulletins and exercise caution during thunderstorms.