The severe fog conditions led to substantial disruptions in both air and rail travel. At Indira Gandhi International Airport, numerous flights experienced delays due to the low visibility, despite the implementation of low visibility procedures. The airport authorities advised passengers to check with their respective airlines for updated flight information. Similarly, at least 26 trains were reported running late, causing inconvenience to commuters.
The IMD's forecast for the day included a generally cloudy sky with the possibility of one or two spells of very light rain during the evening or night. Minimum temperatures were noted to be appreciably above normal by 3°C to 5°C in isolated areas over Delhi, Haryana, Chandigarh, and Uttar Pradesh. The predominant surface wind was expected to come from the southeast at less than 4 km/h during morning hours, increasing to 6-8 km/h from the south in the afternoon before decreasing again in the evening.
The dense fog also exacerbated the city's air quality, which slipped back into the 'very poor' category with an Air Quality Index (AQI) of 338. Neighboring regions such as Noida, Gurugram, and Faridabad reported air pollution levels in the 'poor' category. The Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM) reintroduced Stage III restrictions under the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP) amid the decline in air quality.
Residents were advised to exercise caution due to the reduced visibility and to stay updated on weather conditions. The IMD also noted that smog or shallow to moderate fog was expected in the evening and at night in Delhi. The dense fog conditions were expected to disrupt flight and rail operations to and from Delhi.
The IMD has forecast that the cold conditions are expected to persist, offering no immediate relief from dense fog and cold waves. The minimum temperature in the capital is predicted to drop further to around 5 degrees Celsius in the coming days.
The dense fog and cold wave conditions have also impacted daily life in the region. Early morning travelers faced difficulties in navigating through the dense fog, and the cold conditions are expected to persist, offering no immediate relief from dense fog and cold waves.