North India Braces for Renewed Spell of Rain, Snowfall Through February 7
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A series of western disturbances are poised to bring widespread rainfall and snowfall to the Western Himalayan region and much of North and Central India over the coming days, according to the India Meteorological Department (IMD). The forecast indicates a continuation of unsettled weather patterns, following a brief respite from the cold in some areas.
The IMD reported on Friday that two successive western disturbances will trigger precipitation from January 31st to February 3rd, followed by a third disturbance impacting the region from February 5th to 7th. These systems are expected to bring important weather changes to a large swathe of the country.
Forecast Details: January 31st – February 3rd
The meteorological department anticipates light to moderate rainfall or snowfall across the Western Himalaya during this period.Simultaneously, Northwest and central India are likely to experience light to moderate rainfall. This initial phase of the disturbances is expected to be widespread, impacting daily life and potentially disrupting transportation.
Dense Fog Advisory
Alongside the anticipated rainfall, dense fog conditions are predicted to persist in several areas. A senior official stated that isolated pockets across Northwest and adjoining Central India will likely experience reduced visibility during morning hours until February 1st. Specifically, dense fog is expected over Himachal Pradesh, Uttarakhand, Punjab, Haryana, Chandigarh, and East Rajasthan during the same timeframe.
Subsequent Disturbance: February 5th – 7th
The IMD forecasts that a third western disturbance will affect North-Western India between February 5th and 7th, continuing the pattern of unsettled weather. this suggests that the cold and wet conditions are likely to persist for at least another week.
Regional Breakdown
The forecast details specific regional impacts:
- Jammu-Kashmir-Ladakh-Gilgit-Baltistan-Muzaffarabad: Scattered to fairly widespread rainfall/snowfall with thunderstorms and gusty winds are likely from January 31st to February 2nd.
- himachal Pradesh, Punjab, Haryana, and Chandigarh: Rain is expected on February 1st.
- East Uttar Pradesh: Isolated light rainfall with thunderstorms and lightning is predicted for February 2nd.
- East Madhya Pradesh: Isolated light rainfall with thunderstorm and lightning is expected on February 2nd and 3rd.
brief Respite in Delhi, But Cold Returns
Delhi residents experienced a temporary reprieve from the cold on Friday, with the maximum temperature reaching 22.6 degrees Celsius – half a notch above the seasonal average, according to the IMD.
Why is this happening? A series of western disturbances,originating in the Mediterranean region,are moving across North India. These systems bring moisture and cause precipitation in the form of rain and snow.
Who is affected? The Western Himalayan region, as well as much of North and Central India, including states like Jammu & Kashmir, Ladakh, Himachal Pradesh, Punjab, Haryana, Chandigarh, Uttar Pradesh, and Madhya Pradesh, are experiencing the effects. Delhi also saw a brief respite followed by a return to colder conditions.
What is the forecast? The IMD predicts three successive western disturbances impacting the region. The first two will bring light to moderate rainfall/snowfall from January 31st to February 3rd. The third will continue the unsettled weather from February 5th to 7th.
