What does IMD's early February forecast of fog, storms, and choppy seas mean for flights, road trips, and seaside travel?

🌦️ IMD Weather Forecast — Early February 2026

Scope of the forecast: Large parts of northern, central and eastern India will see a challenging weather pattern starting Feb 3, 2026, with impacts continuing into the first week of February

🚘 Road Travel & Visibility

• Dense to very dense fog is expected across the northern plains (including Bihar, Haryana, Delhi, Punjab, Rajasthan and West Madhya Pradesh).

• Fog during night and early morning hours will reduce visibility, increasing the risk of road accidents and causing disruptions on highways and major transport routes.

• Commuters are advised to use fog lights and drive cautiously, especially during early mornings and late evenings.
  
  ✈️ Impact on Flights & Rail

  • Fog conditions are likely to affect flight operations at multiple airports in north and central India with delays or rescheduling possible.

  • Rail travel — particularly on open routes across fog-prone regions — may also run slower or face timetable changes due to poor visibility.

  • Travelers should check airline/rail schedules before departure.
    🌩️ Thunderstorms & Winds

    • Isolated thunderstorms with lightning and gusty winds are forecast in parts of

      • Himachal Pradesh, Uttarakhand, West Uttar Pradesh, and

      • East Rajasthan, East Uttar Pradesh and Madhya Pradesh.

    • These conditions are driven by western disturbances and shifting wind systems.
      🌊 Coastal/MARINE CONDITIONS

      • Hazardous marine conditions — including rough and squally seas — will persist over the Comorin area, Gulf of Mannar and adjacent water regions until Feb 6.

      • Wind gusts reaching 35–45 km/ph, even up to 55 km/ph, are likely in these waters.

      • Fishermen are strongly advised to avoid venturing out to sea during these days.

🌡️ Temperature & General Conditions

No significant changes in minimum temperatures are forecast across northwest, central and eastern states during this period.

However, some regions (like parts of Maharashtra) may see a gradual rise in nighttime temperatures over the next few days.

🧳 Travel Advisory — What to Do

• Before travel: Check updated forecasts and transport schedules (especially flights and long-distance buses/trains).

• While traveling: Allow extra time, especially for early morning departures; maintain safe driving speeds in fog.

• At sea/coastal locations: Respect marine advisories; small boat or fishing trips should be postponed until conditions ease.