The weather across North India is set to undergo a dramatic transformation as a series of Western Disturbances approach the region, while according to the latest update from the India Meteorological Department (IMD), residents of Delhi-NCR, Uttar Pradesh, and neighboring states should prepare for a return of bone-chilling cold and scattered rainfall. The department has issued a significant weather alert for the next. 48 to 72 hours, predicting heavy precipitation in several northern states.
Impact of Active Western Disturbance
Meteorologists have identified an active Western Disturbance currently influencing the weather patterns over North India. This system has already caused a shift in wind directions, bringing cold north-western winds into the plains. On Saturday morning, several regions reported a sharp decline in temperatures, with mercury levels dropping by 8 to 9 degrees Celsius in some pockets. Dr, while naresh Kumar, a senior scientist at IMD, noted that the interaction between these winds and the incoming moisture will trigger rain across the plains.
Rain Forecast from January 26 to 28
A secondary Western Disturbance is expected to intensify the weather conditions between January 26 and January 28. Its impact will be felt across Punjab, Haryana, Delhi-NCR, Uttar Pradesh, Northern Rajasthan, and parts of Madhya Pradesh, while the peak of this activity is expected on January 27, particularly in the Himalayan belt. While the mountains will witness heavy snow, the plains are. Likely to experience light to moderate showers accompanied by gusty winds.
Heavy Rain and Snowfall Alert for 5 States
The IMD has placed five states and union territories under a high-alert status. Himachal Pradesh, Uttarakhand, Jammu & Kashmir, Tamil Nadu, and Puducherry are expected to receive heavy rainfall. In the higher reaches of Jammu & Kashmir and Himachal Pradesh, heavy snowfall is predicted on January 27. These regions might also experience wind speeds ranging from 40 to 50 km/h, with gusts reaching up to 60 km/h. There is also a significant risk of hailstorms in isolated areas, which could impact standing crops.
Delhi-NCR and Uttar Pradesh Outlook
For the national capital region, the IMD predicts partly cloudy skies with persistent fog over the next 48 hours. Light to moderate rain, accompanied by thunderstorms and winds of 30-40 km/h, is likely to hit Delhi, Noida, and Gurugram by the weekend. In Uttar Pradesh, the western districts are expected to bear the brunt of the storm. Temperatures in UP could plunge by 3 to 6 degrees Celsius, and dense fog is anticipated during the early morning hours, potentially disrupting flight and train schedules.
Health and Travel Advisory
With the sudden dip in temperature and the arrival of rain, health experts advise citizens to take precautions against seasonal illnesses. Travelers planning trips to hill stations like Shimla, Manali, or Srinagar are urged to monitor local weather reports closely, as heavy snow may lead to road closures and landslides. Farmers in the northern plains are also advised to protect their produce from potential hailstorms and excessive moisture.