New Delhi: Spring has sprung in North India, bringing a welcome change from the scorching summer heat. While the days are turning pleasantly warm, mornings and evenings still carry a pleasant chill. However, the weather pattern takes a dramatic turn in the hilly regions, where recent days have seen a delightful mix of sunshine, rain, and snowfall.
Current Weather Snapshot:
- Delhi and Western UP/Haryana: Residents across these regions are enjoying sunshine-filled days, offering a much-needed respite from the summer heat. However, mornings and evenings remain pleasantly cool, prompting the return of light jackets and sweaters.
- Uttarakhand, Himachal Pradesh, and Kashmir: These hilly areas have witnessed a significant drop in temperature due to recent snowfall. The crisp mountain air and picturesque snow-clad landscapes are a treat for nature lovers.
- North-Eastern States: The weather patterns here are experiencing a shift, with a few places witnessing light drizzle.
IMD Forecast for the Next Few Days:
The India Meteorological Department (IMD) predicts a diverse weather pattern across various parts of the country:
- Potential for Heavy Rainfall: Himachal Pradesh, Uttarakhand, and Jammu and Kashmir might witness significant rainfall activities on March 14th.
- Sunshine Prevails in Plains: While the hills experience rain and snow showers, the plains are likely to enjoy mostly sunny days.
- Widespread Rain and Snowfall: Seven states are expected to witness rain and snowfall in the coming days:
- Sub-Himalayan West Bengal and Sikkim: Light rain and snowfall are anticipated between March 14th and 16th.
- Gangetic West Bengal and Odisha: Light rain showers are likely from March 15th to 20th.
- Jharkhand, Vidarbha, Chhattisgarh, and East Madhya Pradesh: These regions might witness light rain spells from March 16th to 20th.
- Gangetic Western Himalayan Region: Thunderstorms accompanied by strong winds are possible between March 15th and 16th.
- East Madhya Pradesh, Vidarbha, Chhattisgarh, and Odisha: Expect rain and thundershowers with strong winds between March 16th and 17th.
Recent Weather Observations:
The IMD reports a significant drop in temperatures across various regions due to recent rain and snowfall activities:
- Uttarakhand, Himachal Pradesh, Sikkim, and North-Eastern States: These regions have witnessed a pleasant change due to the rain.
- Western Rajasthan: Scattered rainfall brought a welcome respite from the heat.
- North Interior Karnataka, Chhattisgarh, West Assam, and Meghalaya: Minimum temperatures in these areas are slightly above normal (3.1 degrees to 5 degrees).
Planning Ahead:
While the initial heatwave might be receding, staying informed about the weather updates is crucial. Here are some tips to ensure a smooth transition into the warmer months:
- Monitor weather forecasts regularly: Staying updated on the IMD’s predictions allows you to plan your daily activities accordingly.
- Carry an umbrella or raincoat: Be prepared for unexpected rain showers, especially in regions with a high chance of precipitation.
- Adjust clothing choices: The fluctuating temperatures necessitate dressing in layers to adapt to the changing weather conditions.
- Prioritize health: With the possibility of seasonal illnesses, maintaining good hygiene and taking precautions like frequent handwashing becomes vital.
