Residents of Delhi NCR, Noida and Gurugram can finally rejoice over the incessant dry cold since the India Meteorological Department (IMD) has forecasted the rainfall and varying weather conditions in most of North India in coming days.
The forecast of recent IMD shows that there will be numerous western disturbances in the region and this will include rainfall, thunderstorms, snowfall in the highlands, heavy mist and increased condition of cold waves.
Why Is the Weather Changing?
According to the officials of IMD, two western disturbances are approaching northwest India in quick succession. These systems tend to be built throughout the Mediterranean area and have a significant influence on the winter weather conditions in India.
As these disturbances advance:
- There will be an increment in moisture levels
- Cloud cover will thicken
- The temperatures will decrease even more.
- The possibility of rain and snow will increase.
This change is likely to affect both the hilly and the plains areas at the same time.
Rain Likely in Delhi-NCR and Nearby Areas
According to weather department, Delhi NCR weather update (Delhi, Noida, Gurugram and the areas) may experience:
- Light to moderate rainfall
- Overcast skies
- Colder nights and chilly mornings
There is also a chance of rainfall between January 22 and January 24 which will have a temporary impact of decreasing air pollution but also add more winter discomfort.
Snowfall Forecast for Hill States
The Himalayan belt will be affected more by the western disturbances.North India cold wave
Areas that are likely to be covered with snow IMD weather forecast:
- Jammu and Kashmir
- Himachal Pradesh
- Ladakh
- Uttarakhand
IMD has forecasted a lot of rain and snowfall and there is probability of moderate to heavy snowfall at more elevated altitudes particularly on 23rd of January. This would have an implication on the connectivity of the road in mountainous regions and derail the movement.Delhi rain prediction
Cold Wave to Continue in Several States
Although there are chances of rainfall, cold wave conditions are likely to continue in most regions of North India.
States at cold wave advisory include:
- Punjab
- Haryana
- Uttar Pradesh
- Rajasthan
- Bihar
- Northern Madhya Pradesh
Minimum temperatures have gone down drastically in recent days, and even cities such as Amritsar are near freezing.
Dense Fog Still a Major Concern
Thick to very thick fog keeps on disturbing day to day activities in the region.
- In several places, it has become less visible than 50 metres.
- Movement at the early morning road and rail is still affected.
- There have been reports of flight delays within Delhi airport.
IMD has issued a warning that the cyclone of fogs might persist in the coming next few days particularly at night and in the early morning hours.
Impact on Daily Life
Travel Disruptions
Lack of visibility because of fog and potential rain might interfere with:
- Road travel
- Train schedules
- Flight operations
It is recommended that commuters should plan their trips and keep track of local recommendations.
Health Advisory
Cold waves put one at risk of:
- Respiratory infections
- Joint pain
- Cold-related illnesses among elderly and children
Experts recommend the use of layered clothes and not to be exposed to cold air.
Relief for Air Quality
The rain in Delhi-NCR can also serve the purpose of temporarily improving the levels of air quality in the area, which have not managed to leave the category of poor because of the stagnant winter conditions.
What IMD Advises
The citizens have been advised by the meteorological department to:
- Keep abreast with official weather bulletins.
- Unnecessary early morning traveling should be avoided.
- Be careful when driving on foggy days.
- Observe the warnings of local administrations in hilly areas.
Weather Outlook Ahead
North India is poised to have an extensive winter period which is a mixture of rain, fog, snowfall and cold waves with the hoard of active western disturbances in place.
Although rainfall will bring certain relief to pollution, it is also likely to raise the cold conditions, hence the next few days will be particularly difficult for the residents of the northern states.