Surprise Rain Hits Delhi-NCR As Cold Wave Deepens

New Delhi: Residents of Delhi and the surrounding National Capital Region woke up to unseasonal rain on Friday morning, catching many off guard as the city battles a deep cold wave. Light showers fell across parts of the capital and neighbouring districts, even though the India Meteorological Department (IMD) had not forecast rain earlier this week. 

What’s Happening With the Weather?

The downpour, although light and intermittent, came amid dense fog and dropping temperatures. The IMD has now predicted more light to moderate rain over the next few hours in several areas of Delhi and NCR, including Noida, Gurugram, Faridabad and parts of Haryana and Rajasthan. 

Forecasters say the unexpected rain is likely to push the mercury down further. Many places in the region are already seeing temperatures well below normal for this time of year.

09/01/2026: 06:30 IST; Light to moderate rainfall accompanied with light thunderstorm and lightning is likely to occur at Nuh (Haryana) . Light rainfall is likely to occur at few places of Delhi ( Preet Vihar, ITO, India Gate, Akshardham, Safdarjung, Lodi Road, Nehru Stadium,

— RWFC New Delhi (@RWFC_ND) January 9, 2026

How Are Conditions on the Ground?

The mix of rain, fog and cold has created tricky travel conditions in the early hours. Visibility dropped sharply on key roads like the Gurugram Expressway and DND Flyway, forcing drivers to slow down and take extra care.

#WATCH | Delhi | Rain lashes parts of the national capital.

(Visuals from Sarita Vihar) pic.twitter.com/hix2ZKw2Qh

— ANI (@ANI) January 9, 2026

Despite the rain, air pollution remains a worry in the capital. Latest readings show air quality still at unhealthy levels in many parts of Delhi-NCR, compounding the discomfort of residents facing both cold and smog.

What's Next for the Weather?

The IMD has issued advisories for dense fog and further temperature dips over the weekend. With more rain likely and the cold wave still in place, Delhiites may have to bundle up and plan extra travel time through the next few days.

Fog Alert – Stay Safe, Stay Warm!
A high probability of dense to very dense fog is expected across Punjab, Rajasthan, Uttar Pradesh, and extending from Assam and Meghalaya through Bihar, Haryana, Chandigarh, Himachal Pradesh, Jammu Region, Madhya Pradesh, Nagaland, Manipur,… pic.twitter.com/UlMi3BRyz4

— India Meteorological Department (@Indiametdept) January 8, 2026