The harsh winter and cold waves in North India are set to take a turn as the Western Disturbance becomes active, bringing rain, snowfall, and hail from the mountains to the plains. The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued strong weather alerts for seven key states for the next 24 hours, warning residents and travelers to stay prepared.

States Under Weather Alert

According to the latest IMD bulletin for 27 January 2026, heavy snowfall and rainfall are expected in the higher reaches of Jammu & Kashmir, Ladakh, and Himachal Pradesh. Meanwhile, the plains of Punjab, Haryana, Chandigarh, Delhi, and western Uttar Pradesh may experience light to moderate rain showers.

The Kashmir Valley and upper Himachal Pradesh are expected to witness intense snowfall, which could severely disrupt road and air traffic in these regions.

Plains to Face Rain and Strong Winds

In the plains, residents can expect:

• Rain showers with wind speeds of 40–60 km/h

• Thunder and lightning activity

• Localized hailstorms in sensitive areas

Due to these conditions, the IMD has issued Yellow and Orange alerts for various parts of North India, urging caution for commuters, farmers, and outdoor activities.

Regional Weather Outlook

• Punjab, Haryana, and Chandigarh: Scattered rainfall with thunder is likely. Residents should anticipate chilly conditions following the rain.

• Western Uttar Pradesh and Rajasthan: Winds may blow at 30–40 km/h accompanied by occasional lightning strikes.

• Eastern Uttar Pradesh and Bihar: Rainfall may continue over 27–28 January.

• Madhya Pradesh and Maharashtra: Light rainfall and thunder are expected in some areas.

Hailstorm Warning and Cold Wave Impact

The IMD has highlighted a high-risk of hailstorms today in Himachal Pradesh, Uttarakhand, western Uttar Pradesh, and Rajasthan. Farmers are advised to take preventive measures as standing crops may suffer damage from hail.

In Haryana, Chandigarh, Delhi, and Punjab, the cold wave is expected to intensify after rainfall, causing a further drop in minimum temperatures.

Morning fog is predicted in several parts of Uttar Pradesh and Bihar, reducing visibility and increasing risk for travelers and vehicle operators.

Safety Tips for Residents and Travelers

• Avoid unnecessary travel in affected areas, especially during snowfall or hail.

• Farmers should protect vulnerable crops from hail damage.

• Commuters should drive carefully in foggy conditions, particularly in low-visibility areas.

• Stay updated with IMD alerts and weather advisories before planning travel or outdoor activities.

North India is facing a multi-state weather disturbance due to an active Western Disturbance. Heavy snowfall in the mountains and rain with strong winds in the plains could impact daily life, agriculture, and travel. Residents of the seven affected states—Jammu & Kashmir, Ladakh, Himachal Pradesh, Punjab, Haryana, Delhi, and western Uttar Pradesh—are advised to take precautions over the next 24 hours as Yellow and Orange alerts remain in effect.