Avoid drinking, says IMD as North India braces for 'severe' cold wave from Monday Avoid drinking, says IMD as North India braces for 'severe' cold wave from Monday The Indian Meteorological Department has advised people to avoid drinking as a severe cold wave is expected in North India. advertisement Delhi's air quality has improved to 'very poor' category. (Photo: PTI) According to the India Meteorological Department (IMD), it is going to get very cold in North India, and drinking alcohol at home or year-end parties is not advised. As per a report in PTI, the IMD said "severe" cold wave is expected over Punjab, Haryana, Delhi, Uttar Pradesh and northern Rajasthan from December 28 and there is increased likelihood of various illnesses like flu, running nose or nosebleed which usually set in or get aggravated due to prolonged exposure to cold.