Weather Update: Heavy Rain, Thunderstorms, and Dense Fog to Grip Delhi, Rajasthan, Uttar Pradesh, and Punjab on Dec 28

India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued a forecast for the coming days, highlighting the influence of a strong Western Disturbance and associated systems. Expect widespread rain, snowfall, thunderstorms, and hailstorms across northern and central regions, accompanied by a significant drop in temperatures, cold wave conditions, and dense fog in several areas. Here are the details

Western Disturbance and Associated Systems

A strong Western Disturbance is influencing weather conditions in northwestern and central India, interacting with easterly winds and moisture from both the Arabian Sea and Bay of Bengal. This interaction is causing significant rainfall, snowfall, and thunderstorms across affected regions.

Rainfall/Snowfall:

• Western Himalayan Region: Widespread rain/snow on December 28. Heavy snowfall expected in Himachal Pradesh and Uttarakhand (Dec 28).

• Northwest India: Moderate to heavy rainfall in Punjab, Haryana, Chandigarh, Delhi, Uttar Pradesh, and Rajasthan on December 28.

• Central and West India: Scattered thunderstorms, lightning, and gusty winds across Madhya Pradesh, Gujarat, and Maharashtra on December 28.

Hailstorms: Likely in parts of Himachal Pradesh, Uttarakhand, Punjab, Haryana, Rajasthan, Maharashtra, and Gujarat.

A Fresh Western Disturbance is expected to bring light rain/snow over the Western Himalayan Region on January 1-2, 2025.

Temperature Trends

India is experiencing a mix of temperature patterns, with some regions reporting a rise in minimum temperatures while others face a notable chill. From sub-zero conditions in Jammu & Kashmir to above-normal warmth in central and western states, the coming days promise significant fluctuations, Here's a closer look at the temperature highs and lows.

A 2-4°C drop in temperatures expected over Northwest, Central, and East India during the next 3 days.

Cold Wave Warnings

A severe cold wave is expected to grip Himachal Pradesh from December 29 to 31, with intense cold day conditions forecasted for December 28. Similarly, regions like Uttarakhand and Delhi NCR are likely to experience cold day conditions during December 28, with temperatures dropping significantly during these days. Residents are advised to take precautions to stay warm and avoid prolonged exposure to the cold.

Dense Fog Forecast

Dense to very dense fog is anticipated in isolated pockets of Punjab, Haryana, Rajasthan, Himachal Pradesh, Uttar Pradesh, Odisha, and the Northeast states during late nights and early mornings. Visibility may be severely reduced in affected areas, posing potential risks for travelers. Caution is recommended for those commuting during these hours.

Delhi/NCR Forecast

Delhi/NCR region is set to experience a mix of weather conditions over the next few days, ranging from cloudy skies and intermittent rain to dense fog and smog during early mornings and evenings. Predominantly light winds will keep temperatures cool, while visibility is likely to be significantly reduced in some areas due to fog.

As intense weather conditions unfold in the upcoming days, residents in Delhi, Rajasthan, Uttar Pradesh, Haryana, and Punjab are advised to stay indoors during thunderstorms, lightning, and hailstorm events. Drivers should exercise caution due to reduced visibility from fog and heavy rain. Keep an eye on local weather updates, ensure proper drainage. Stay safe and take precautions against the cold and fog, especially during early mornings and late evenings.