Across North India, significant weather changes are on the horizon as Western Disturbances roll through Haryana, Jammu & Kashmir, Himachal Pradesh, and Rajasthan. Meteorologists, particularly from the India Meteorological Department (IMD), have issued warnings for the period from February 26 to March 1, indicating widespread rain and snowfall, sharply affecting daily life, agriculture, and travel across these states.
Haryana is expected to witness substantial shifts starting February 26, with expectations of rain on February 27, accompanied by thunderstorms. The IMD forecasts suggest marked temperature drops across the region, with meteorologists predicting the effects of not one, but two consecutive Western Disturbances. "According to our meteorological models, changes are expected due to two successive Western Disturbances," said IMD meteorologist Vikram Singh. The impact could see nighttime temperatures increase slightly due to cloud cover, yet daytime temperatures will fall.
Meanwhile, reports from different districts indicate varied temperature ranges; for example, Hisar recently recorded minimum temperatures around 10.5 degrees Celsius with maximum temperatures up to 26.6 degrees Celsius. On the same day, temperatures were expected to hover between 11.6 degrees and 27.5 degrees Celsius across the state. It is important to note, as Singh elaborated, the anticipation of moderate winds and cloudiness likely to bring unexpected shifts, affecting local farmers, particularly as they prepare for sowing and harvest periods.
Shifting westward, Jammu & Kashmir's weather has shifted as well, with higher elevation regions experiencing fresh snowfall and rain across the plains. Citing continuous precipitation, weather stations are reporting heavy snowfall from February 28. "Some parts might face severe weather-related challenges, including travel disruptions due to snow accumulation," warned meteorologists on February 27. The snow levels observed have brought relief after earlier months of less precipitation during January and February.
Further impacts are being noted across Himachal Pradesh as well, where light rain and moderate snowfall affected several districts, including Shimla and Kullu. Notably, popular tourist spots like Rohtang Pass and Baralacha are experiencing fresh layers of snow accumulation. The state is bracing for colder temperatures with maximums down as much as 11 degrees from previous weeks. The IMD has issued yellow alerts for areas like Shimla and Kinnaur, warning of potential landslides and avalanches; both could create opportunities for tourism yet risks for local residents.
Over to Rajasthan, the desert state is bracing for rainy spells too, likely commencing from February 27, with alerts issued across numerous districts. Forecasts indicate light to moderate precipitation across Bikaner and Jodhpur regions, with possibilities of hailstorms affecting some areas as well. Residents are cautioned as damp weather could mean falls of 1 to 4 degrees Celsius over the upcoming period.
Local farmers are understandably anxious, as many have already faced tough seasons due to previous dry weather patterns. Farmers voiced concerns; with the new alerts, their worries about crop safety add to the stress of their livelihood. The alerts issued will undoubtedly prompt increased monitoring from agriculturalists and government agencies as the weather continues to evolve.
Weather pattern changes have caused widespread concerns across the various states. While these disturbances may provide much-needed precipitation, associated risks such as travel disruptions and safety hazards are being recognized. The IMD continues to monitor developments closely and will issue updates as necessary.
The coming days are anticipated to bring extensive variability across North India, with farmers and residents alike advised to stay prepared for whatever conditions may arise. Weather enthusiasts and locals are urged to stay informed through trusted channels as they navigate these changing conditions.