Winter Tightens Grip: Cold Wave Sweeps North India as Southern States Brace for Heavy Rainfall

India is experiencing contrasting weather patterns this November, with northern and central states facing cold wave conditions and temperatures dropping 4-7°C below normal, while southern states like Tamil Nadu and Kerala prepare for heavy rainfall and thunderstorms through mid-November 2025.

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Key Points

  • Cold wave conditions to persist in Rajasthan, Madhya Pradesh, Chhattisgarh, and Jharkhand from November 9-11, 2025
  • Heavy rainfall alert issued for Tamil Nadu on November 9, 12, and 13; Kerala on November 9-10
  • Delhi temperatures expected to range between 26-28°C (max) and 12-13°C (min) with light morning fog
  • First snowfall of season reported in Himachal Pradesh’s Lahaul-Spiti and Manali regions
  • Night temperatures running 2-4°C below normal across northwest and central India

New Delhi: The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued warnings as an intense cold wave sweeps across multiple states, marking an early onset of winter conditions. The mercury has already dipped below 10°C in several northwestern regions, with temperature anomalies of 4 to 7°C below normal recorded in parts of Rajasthan, Madhya Pradesh, Punjab, and Haryana.

Cold wave conditions are very likely to prevail in isolated areas of East Rajasthan from November 9-10, and over Madhya Pradesh, Chhattisgarh, and Jharkhand from November 9-11. Cities like Jaipur, Udaipur, Gwalior, and Bhopal have reported unusually cold mornings, with clear skies and dry northwesterly winds contributing to rapid nighttime cooling. The IMD predicts that below-normal night temperatures will persist over northwest and adjoining central India for at least the next six to seven days.

A yellow alert has been issued for Rajasthan’s Sikar and Tonk districts, as well as several areas of Madhya Pradesh, including Rewa, Rajgarh, Shajapur, Sehore, Indore, and Dewas. The temperature fall is expected to intensify over the plains of central and eastern India, marking early widespread cold wave spells of the season.

Southern States Face Heavy Rainfall Alert

While northern India shivers, southern states are bracing for a wet spell with the IMD issuing heavy rainfall warnings through November 13, 2025. Tamil Nadu is expected to receive heavy rain on November 9, 12, and 13, with thunderstorms and lightning accompanying the downpours.

Kerala has been placed under a yellow alert, with isolated heavy rainfall expected in Thiruvananthapuram, Kollam, Pathanamthitta, and Alappuzha districts on November 9, and in Thiruvananthapuram, Kollam, and Alappuzha on November 10. The IMD has cautioned that rainfall ranging from 64.5 mm to 115.5 mm within 24 hours is possible in some areas.

Residents in coastal communities have been advised to remain cautious as heavy rainfall and thunderstorms may lead to rough sea conditions. Travelers heading to popular southern destinations such as Madurai, Rameswaram, Kochi, and Thiruvananthapuram are urged to plan carefully as intermittent showers could disrupt road and air traffic.

Delhi Weather Update

The national capital is experiencing a gradual drop in temperatures as winter sets in. On November 10, 2025, Delhi’s maximum temperature is expected to reach 26°C, while the minimum temperature will hover around 12-13°C. Light fog is likely to appear in the morning hours, with winds blowing at moderate speeds from the northwest direction.

The seven-day forecast indicates that temperatures will remain relatively stable throughout the week, with maximum temperatures between 24-26°C and minimum temperatures ranging from 11-13°C. The gradual cooling trend signals the arrival of the winter season in the northern plains.

Pleasant Weather Continues in Uttar Pradesh

Uttar Pradesh is currently enjoying pleasant weather conditions with neither scorching heat nor severe cold. No fog alert has been issued for the upcoming week, making the weather ideal for outdoor activities. However, night temperatures are gradually declining across the state.

On November 10, the weather is expected to remain dry in both the western and eastern parts of Uttar Pradesh. The absence of any active weather systems means residents can expect clear skies and comfortable conditions during the day, though evenings and nights are becoming cooler.

Bihar Braces for Temperature Drop

Bihar is witnessing cooler-than-usual conditions this November, with no active rainfall systems currently in the state. Temperatures have been averaging around 27-28°C during the day, which is approximately 2.4°C below the typical seasonal average. Night temperatures are expected to drop by an additional 2-3°C in the coming days, bringing cold wave conditions to some parts of northwestern Bihar.

The weather is forecast to remain predominantly dry with minimal chances of precipitation throughout November. Residents should prepare for increasingly cold nights as the month progresses, though daytime temperatures will remain pleasant.

Snowfall Begins in Himachal Pradesh

Himachal Pradesh has received the first significant snowfall of the 2025 winter season, transforming popular tourist destinations into winter wonderlands. Heavy snowfall has been reported in the Lahaul-Spiti district and the tourist hub of Manali, with Rohtang Pass receiving over 60cm of fresh snow.

Solang Valley witnessed 40cm of snowfall, while Manali town itself received 10cm of snow. Other areas, including Kalpa (20cm), Kufri (10cm), Dalhousie (5cm), and Jalori Pass (45cm), have also been blanketed in white. The Met Centre has predicted continued snowfall in the higher regions over the next 24 hours, with intense cold waves gripping the entire state.

Tourists are flocking to these snow-covered destinations to enjoy the winter spectacle, though authorities have advised caution while traveling to higher altitudes. The early snowfall has brought joy to hoteliers and the tourism industry, which relies heavily on winter visitors.

Uttarakhand Faces Unusual Weather Pattern

Interestingly, while some parts of Uttarakhand are experiencing winter chill, popular hill stations like Mussoorie and Nainital are witnessing unusually warm conditions for this time of year. Mussoorie is experiencing an unexpected warm spell with little snowfall and rising temperatures, puzzling both tourists and locals who expect the typical winter chill by early November.

Scientists attribute this unusual weather pattern to climate change and global warming, with weak or delayed Western Disturbances affecting the region. However, areas like Nainital are still experiencing pleasant November weather with daytime temperatures ranging from 15-20°C and night temperatures dropping to 5-8°C. Cold wave conditions are expected to intensify in certain parts of Uttarakhand, particularly in Nainital, Mussoorie, and Rudraprayag, causing hardships during mornings and evenings.

Weather Advisory for Travelers

The IMD has issued comprehensive advisories for travelers across the country. While northern and central regions offer comfortable travel conditions during the day, dense early morning fog may soon become an issue as temperatures continue to fall.

Coastal communities and fishermen in southern states have been urged to stay updated on local forecasts and avoid risky sailing conditions during rainy days. The contrasting weather patterns across India require travelers to plan accordingly, with warm clothing essential for northern destinations and rain gear necessary for southern states.

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