Delhi and the National Capital Region (NCR) have been heavily impacted by rain over the past 24 hours, leading to cooler temperatures and much-needed relief from the unseasonably warm weather experienced earlier. This morning brought substantial rainfall, with several areas, including Noida and Ghaziabad, seeing the same effects. According to the India Meteorological Department (IMD), this transition due to the rain has significantly changed the local weather patterns.
On Friday, the maximum temperature recorded was 27 degrees Celsius, which is 0.9 degrees above the seasonal average. The minimum temperature was noted at 18.4 degrees Celsius, surpassing normal levels by 5.9 degrees. Humidity levels during this period fluctuated between 56% to 75% across various districts of the capital. IMD forecasts predict partial cloud cover for Saturday, with maximum temperatures around 28 degrees Celsius and minimum temperatures dropping to 15 degrees Celsius.
From March 2nd to March 6th, meteorologists expect predominantly dry weather with occasional cloudy conditions. There is also the possibility of strong winds at speeds of 20-30 km/h on March 4th and 5th. The introduction of a new western disturbance is expected by March 2nd, primarily impacting the northwestern regions of India, but it is anticipated to have less effect on Delhi.
The weather changes have not only brought down the temperature but also provided relief from the extreme heat experienced during February when average temperatures soared unusually high. The month of February alone witnessed the highest average minimum temperature registered in years at 11.6 degrees Celsius, with peak daily temperatures reaching record highs for the month. February witnessed only four rainy days, significantly less than the previous year's six, resulting in increased concerns about changing weather patterns.
Further north, the states of Himachal Pradesh, Uttarakhand, and Jammu & Kashmir are also experiencing severe weather conditions. Heavy snowfall and rain have added to disruptions, affecting daily life and closing major roads. Several areas have reported substantial snowfall, leading to blocked routes and canceled transport services. Schools across Chamba and Manali have closed due to adverse conditions.
Simultaneously, Bihar's weather has continued to fluctuate, with alerts for rain issued across multiple districts. The weather department has stated several districts are likely to experience thunderstorms and rain, though temperatures remain above normal. Six districts, including Katihar, Bhagalpur, and Jamui, have yellow alerts for possible thunderstorms, but no significant drop is expected soon.
The weather has remained unpredictable, with alerts for thunderstorms and light showers issued throughout the state. The minimum and maximum temperatures are projected to vary between 14°C and 32°C. This continued variability is expected to influence both day and night temperatures.
Overall, March 1st, 2025, heralds significant changes in weather patterns across North India. While residents of Delhi and NCR celebrate cooler temperatures, those in Bihar must stay alert to changing conditions as weather alerts remain active. The IMD will continue to monitor and update forecasts as the week progresses.