Heavy Rainfall Alert: North India, sweltering under the harsh sun for the past few days, can expect some respite. The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued an alert for heavy rain in the hills as two new western disturbances approach the region.
However, for some states, the showers won’t be a welcome change. Eastern and Central India continue to witness thunderstorms, lightning, and even hailstorms, while the Northeast braces for heavy rainfall in the coming days. Let’s delve deeper into the weather forecast for various parts of the country.
Relief Rains and Potential Heatwave:
While the plains of North India, including Uttar Pradesh and Delhi, have been experiencing scorching days, the hilly areas are set for a change. The IMD predicts heavy rain in the Western Himalayan region – Jammu and Kashmir, Ladakh, Himachal Pradesh, and Uttarakhand – due to the incoming western disturbances.
This is a much-needed break from the rising heat, but it might be short-lived. The weather department also warns of a potential increase in maximum temperatures by 2-3 degrees Celsius in North-West India over the next two days.
Not So Sunny for Everyone:
While some states are yearning for rain, others are already grappling with its fury. The IMD has issued warnings for thunderstorms, lightning, and even hailstorms in parts of Eastern and Central India.
These warnings are in effect for today (March 19) and tomorrow (March 20) and cover states like Jharkhand, Odisha, Gangetic West Bengal, Vidarbha, Chhattisgarh, Bihar, and East Madhya Pradesh. Strong winds are also expected, with speeds reaching 50-60 kilometers per hour.
The Rain Story Continues in the East and Northeast:
The wet spell doesn’t seem to be ending for the Northeast and Sub-Himalayan West Bengal, including Sikkim. The IMD predicts heavy rain in these regions from March 20 to 23. This might bring some relief from the scorching heat but could also lead to potential flooding and landslides.
Looking Back at the Last 24 Hours:
The past 24 hours have seen a mix of weather across the country. Light to moderate rain occurred in Arunachal Pradesh, Himachal Pradesh, and Uttarakhand. Even snowfall was recorded in some areas. Meanwhile, states like Chhattisgarh, East Madhya Pradesh, Gangetic West Bengal, Jharkhand, Odisha, and parts of South India also received rain.
Here’s a quick table summarizing the regional weather forecasts:
| Region | Forecast (March 19-21) | Forecast (March 20 onwards) |
|---|---|---|
| Eastern and Central India | Thunderstorms, lightning, hailstorms, strong winds | No significant change for next 2 days, then rise in maximum temperature (2-4°C) |
| North-West India | Rise in maximum temperature (2-3°C) | Heavy rain and snowfall in Western Himalayas (Jammu & Kashmir, Ladakh, Himachal Pradesh, Uttarakhand) |
| Northeast and Sub-Himalayan West Bengal | Heavy rain | Heavy rain |
| Other parts of India | Isolated rain showers | Variable depending on the region |
Stay Prepared:
With heavy rain and potential thunderstorms forecast across various parts of the country, it’s crucial to stay informed and prepared. Here are some tips:
- Keep an eye on weather updates from the IMD.
- If you live in an area prone to flooding or landslides, be extra cautious during heavy rain.
- Carry an umbrella or raincoat if you’re venturing outdoors.
- If you experience strong winds, stay indoors and avoid open areas.
- Be mindful of lightning strikes and avoid using electrical appliances during thunderstorms.
By following these simple precautions, you can stay safe and navigate the ever-changing weather conditions effectively.
