A persistent cold front is gaining strength in northern India, accompanied by cloud cover in many areas. Reports of rainfall emerged in several regions on Monday, contributing to the overall unpredictability of the weather. The fluctuating conditions have led to a significant drop in temperatures across Uttar Pradesh, Madhya Pradesh, Rajasthan, Haryana, and Delhi over the past three days.
Anticipated rain and snowfall in Jammu and Kashmir
Night temperatures in Jammu and Kashmir have remained above normal, with meteorologists predicting light rain and snowfall in the next 24 hours. There are forecasts of widespread light to moderate rain, storms, and snowfall across the region on November 29 and 30. A yellow alert has been issued in both Jammu and Kashmir during the next two days. According to the Meteorological Department, the weather is expected to be partly cloudy from December 1-6.
Cloud cover over Rajasthan
A western disturbance has resulted in drizzle in several states, causing dense fog in certain districts and prompting people to stay indoors until late morning. The meteorological department has issued an alert for a cloudy sky and rain in more than half a dozen districts of Rajasthan, including Jaipur. The capital witnessed morning fog persisting with drizzle throughout the day.
Monday night brought a partial fluctuation in temperatures, resulting in a chilling day as the mercury dropped by ten degrees. Despite the presence of sun and clouds, people have been staying indoors due to harsh winter conditions. Weather experts predict the system’s impact to persist in eastern parts of Rajasthan, with gradual clearing expected in west and south Rajasthan, followed by the possibility of dense fog.
Temperature dip in Himachal Pradesh after snowfall
After experiencing two days of snowfall, high-altitude areas in Himachal Pradesh have witnessed a drop in temperatures. Minimum temperatures in most cities have decreased by one to two degrees, leading to a cold wave across the state. Light snowfall occurred in prominent peaks, including Saptarishi, Lady of Keylong, Ghepan Peak of Lahaul-Spiti, and Kinnar Kailash of Kinnaur. The plains and central mountainous areas of the state remain cloudy, with cold winds blowing in the capital cities of Shimla, Manali, and Dalhousie, creating favorable conditions for snowfall.
Madhya Pradesh soaked and chilled by rain
Madhya Pradesh has experienced continuous drizzling rainfall over the last two days, attributed to Western Disturbance and other weather systems. Fourteen districts, including Indore and Bhopal, witnessed rain on Monday, resulting in increased cold and a notable drop in daytime temperatures. A potent weather system influenced by the passing Western Disturbance, cyclone, and trough line has led to storms, rain, and hail across the state. Bhopal, in particular, recorded 8.8 mm of rainfall in a day, the highest November rainfall in a decade.
Cold sets in West Bengal
The cold is gradually intensifying in West Bengal, as reported by the regional headquarters of the Meteorological Department in Alipore. The minimum temperature in Kolkata on Monday stood at 19.5 degrees Celsius, two degrees higher than normal, while the maximum temperature recorded was 28.2 degrees Celsius. Despite a rise in overall temperatures, the presence of fog from dusk till sunrise contributed to a chilly feel in the air.
Temperature expected to further drop from Nov 30
The sudden rainfall across parts of India can be attributed to two weather systems. One of them is a trough extending from north Pakistan to northeast Arabian Sea across west Rajasthan and Gujarat. Another trough extends from southeast Arabian Sea to north Maharashtra coast. The combined effect of these weather systems will result in heavy showers over many parts of north Maharashtra and southwest Madhya Pradesh. Additionally, the IMD has stated that another western disturbance is likely to occur on November 30, bringing northern winds that might cause a further dip in temperatures.