Weather Update: IMD Predicts Heavy Rainfall Expected Across 7 States; Further Dip In Temperatures

As the cold wave continues to affect much of North India, the India Meteorological Department (IMD) has observed a depression in air pressure over Jammu and Kashmir and Himachal Pradesh, indicating the formation of a cyclone. This cyclonic circulation is expected to persist in South Punjab and its surrounding areas, significantly influencing weather patterns across the region. An active western disturbance will likely impact the western Himalayan region and the plains of northwest India starting December 27.

Meanwhile, in South India, despite the cold dominating the north, rainfall persists. The IMD has issued a yellow alert, indicating heavy rain across more than seven states in the next 24 hours. This marks a significant shift in weather conditions, highlighting the diverse climatic scenarios unfolding across the country.

Chilly Winds and Snowfall Impact Northern Regions

In the northern parts of India, the situation is quite different. Continuous snowfall in the hilly areas is causing temperatures to drop sharply. The IMD has forecasted light to moderate rain in Himachal Pradesh and Uttarakhand within the next 24 hours, with similar conditions expected in Jammu and Kashmir. This adds to the cold wave that has gripped the entire northern region, including Delhi, which has experienced rain for the past two days, disrupting daily activities.

The weather forecast also extends to light to moderate rain in Uttar Pradesh, North Madhya Pradesh, Odisha, Coastal Andhra Pradesh, Coastal Tamil Nadu, parts of Telangana, South Chhattisgarh, and the Andaman and Nicobar Islands. Additionally, coastal areas of Kerala and Karnataka are likely to receive light rainfall, further contributing to the diverse weather patterns observed across India.

Cold Wave and Fog Alerts Issued

Punjab and Haryana are bracing for a cold wave and fog, with a yellow alert issued for these areas. Dense fog is expected on December 26, followed by rain with thunder and lightning on December 27. Haryana, in particular, faces cold wave conditions until December 26, with rain anticipated on the 27th. In Himachal Pradesh, the higher reaches of several districts have already experienced snowfall, leading to the issuance of an orange alert for dense fog and cold wave conditions. Unfortunately, this severe weather has resulted in the loss of four lives due to a vehicle skidding in the area.

Impacts on Daily Life and Environment

The recent heavy rain in Delhi and the NCR region has slightly improved pollution levels, a welcome change for residents. Similar weather conditions have been reported in Punjab, Haryana, Rajasthan, and the Himachal-Uttarakhand region. The snowfall in Jammu and Kashmir, coupled with a western disturbance, has brought rain to the plains of North India, affecting daily life but also providing some relief from pollution.

For Delhi, the weather on Christmas Day is anticipated to be clear with the possibility of fog. The capital's temperature is expected to vary, with lows of 8 degrees Celsius and highs of 21 degrees Celsius. Following Christmas, rain is expected to resume in Delhi from the night of December 26, with potential rainfall also forecasted for December 27 and 28.

The Meteorological Department also predicts rain, thunder, and hailstorms in many parts of western Uttar Pradesh on December 27. Dense fog is likely to envelop many districts of the state late at night or early in the morning on December 25, affecting visibility and potentially disrupting travel plans during the holiday season.