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Delhi Gripped by Severe Cold Wave and Dense Fog

  //health-fitness.news-articles.net/content/2026/ .. i-gripped-by-severe-cold-wave-and-dense-fog.html
  Published in Health and Fitness on Tuesday, February 24th 2026 at 12:39 GMT by TheHealthSite
      Locales: Delhi, INDIA

New Delhi, February 24th, 2026 - Delhi and the National Capital Region (NCR) are currently gripped by a persistent and severe cold wave, triggering health alerts and widespread disruption. Temperatures have plummeted, and dense fog continues to blanket the region, severely impacting transportation and raising concerns about public health. The India Meteorological Department (IMD) is forecasting that these frigid conditions will persist for at least the next week, prompting a coordinated response from government authorities and healthcare professionals.

Early Tuesday morning saw Delhi recording a minimum temperature of a biting 5 degrees Celsius. While seemingly consistent with past winters, meteorologists are emphasizing the duration of this cold spell as particularly concerning. Unlike previous brief dips, current atmospheric patterns suggest a sustained period of below-normal temperatures. This extended exposure to the cold increases the risk of hypothermia, particularly amongst vulnerable populations like the homeless and the elderly.

The pervasive dense fog is adding another layer of complexity. Visibility has been reduced to near zero in many areas during peak hours, leading to significant delays and cancellations of flights and trains. Road traffic has also been heavily affected, with reports of multiple pile-ups on major highways. The IMD is employing advanced weather modeling to provide more accurate, hyperlocal forecasts, helping authorities manage traffic flow and issue timely advisories.

A Looming Public Health Crisis: The Flu Season Intensifies

Beyond the immediate discomfort and disruption caused by the cold, health experts are particularly worried about the surge in seasonal influenza cases. The cold weather creates ideal conditions for the spread of respiratory viruses. Lower temperatures suppress the immune system, making individuals more susceptible to infection, while the tendency to spend more time indoors in close proximity facilitates transmission.

"We're already seeing a significant increase in flu cases compared to the same period last year," explains Dr. Anya Sharma, a leading epidemiologist at All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS). "The cold wave is exacerbating the situation, and we anticipate a substantial peak in infections in the coming weeks. It's not just influenza; we're also observing a rise in common colds, bronchitis, and pneumonia."

To counter this growing health threat, the Delhi government has issued a comprehensive health advisory urging residents to take preventative measures. These include wearing warm, layered clothing, staying hydrated, practicing diligent hand hygiene, avoiding crowded places, and, crucially, considering vaccination against seasonal flu. Public health campaigns are being rolled out through various media channels to disseminate this information widely.

Government and Healthcare Response

The Delhi government is actively monitoring the situation and has implemented several measures to mitigate the impact of the cold wave. Night shelters have been established across the city to provide refuge for the homeless, equipped with blankets, heating facilities, and medical assistance. Mobile medical teams are being deployed to conduct outreach programs in vulnerable communities, offering basic healthcare services and distributing warm clothing.

Hospitals throughout Delhi are preparing for a potential influx of patients with cold-related illnesses and flu. Emergency departments are on high alert, and additional beds are being reserved to accommodate a surge in demand. Supply chains for essential medicines and vaccines are being closely monitored to prevent shortages.

Furthermore, the government is collaborating with private healthcare providers to ensure adequate capacity and coordination. Telemedicine services are being expanded to provide remote consultations and reduce the burden on hospitals. The Delhi Pollution Control Committee (DPCC) is also monitoring air quality levels, which remain a concern despite the cold weather. The combination of cold temperatures and stagnant air is trapping pollutants, leading to hazardous air quality in several parts of the city. Authorities are urging residents to avoid outdoor activities during peak pollution hours.

Looking Ahead

The current cold wave serves as a stark reminder of the increasing frequency and intensity of extreme weather events. Climate change is believed to be contributing to these shifts in weather patterns, and long-term strategies are needed to build resilience and protect public health. Investments in early warning systems, improved infrastructure, and public health preparedness are crucial to minimizing the impact of future cold waves and other climate-related disasters.