Orange Alert In Prayagraj: Kumbh Mela May Face Rain And Fog Challenges Today

The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued an orange alert for Prayagraj today due to anticipated rain and foggy conditions, according to a Financial Express report. This comes as the Kumbh Mela, one of the largest religious gatherings in the world, continues to draw millions of devotees. IMD scientist Soma Sen Roy informed ANI that while fog in the region is not expected to be extremely dense, it could still have a significant impact.

Weather Forecast For Uttar Pradesh

As per the same report, Soma Sen Roy explained that a western disturbance currently situated over Pakistan, along with an induced cyclonic circulation over South Haryana, is moving eastward. "Thunderstorms are likely in hilly areas, snowfall is expected in hill states, and light rain is anticipated in western Uttar Pradesh," she said.

Photo Credit: IMD

The IMD has also forecast another western disturbance on January 18 and 19, with yet another expected on January 21 and 22. These disturbances are likely to bring rain to hill states and parts of the plains.

Dense Fog Expected Across Northern India

Temperatures in northwest India, including Delhi, Haryana, and Punjab, are likely to drop by two to three degrees Celsius over the next two days. Dense fog is expected in these regions on January 17 and 18, prompting the issuance of a yellow alert for western Uttar Pradesh, Punjab, and Haryana.

Kumbh Mela Draws Millions Despite Weather

In Prayagraj, the Maha Kumbh has already seen an enormous turnout, with over six crore devotees participating since its start. On January 16, thousands braved the weather to take a holy dip at the Triveni Sangam, despite forecasts of rain and fog.

To manage the large crowds, the Prayagraj administration has established an AI-driven lost and found centre to assist pilgrims.

Heavy Rainfall Forecast In Southern India

Elsewhere, Tamil Nadu's Tirunelveli recorded 13 centimetres of rainfall, while the Andaman and Nicobar Islands are expected to experience moderate to heavy rain on 18th January. A yellow alert has been issued for these regions.

As the weather continues to shift, authorities urge residents and devotees to remain cautious and take necessary precautions.