Weather Update: Rain and Snow Forecast for North and Northeast India While Heatwave Hits Gujarat and Odisha; Light Rain Likely in Delhi

As India enters mid-March, the India Meteorological Department (IMD) has predicted dynamic weather patterns, including rainfall, snowfall, thunderstorms, and significant temperature variations across the country. Multiple weather systems are expected to bring contrasting conditions—ranging from snowfall in the Himalayas to heatwaves in Gujarat and Odisha. Here are the details.

Western Disturbances to Bring Rain and Snow in North India

A strong Western Disturbance, marked by a cyclonic circulation over West Iran, is influencing weather patterns across North India. Another cyclonic circulation is present over southwest Rajasthan. These systems will lead to widespread precipitation across the western Himalayan region.

Expected Impact (March 12–16)

• Jammu-Kashmir-Ladakh-Gilgit-Baltistan-Muzaffarabad and Himachal Pradesh will experience fairly widespread to widespread light/moderate rainfall/snowfall with thunderstorms and lightning.

• Uttarakhand will see similar weather from March 12–16.

• Heavy snowfall is expected in Jammu-Kashmir and Himachal Pradesh on March 14.

Rainfall Forecast for Plains

Thunderstorm activity is also expected in Punjab, Haryana, and West UP on March 13–14.

Northeast to Experience Intense Rainfall and Gusty Winds

Two troughs over the eastern region, one at lower and another at middle tropospheric levels, are expected to influence the weather in the northeast.

• Arunachal Pradesh: Fairly widespread rainfall from March 12–15, with isolated heavy to very heavy rainfall on March 13.

• Assam & Meghalaya: Scattered rainfall with gusty winds (40–50 kmph) on March 12–13; isolated heavy rainfall on March 13.

• Nagaland, Manipur, Mizoram, Tripura: Rainfall from March 12–16.

Northeast Rain Forecast Table:

Southern India Braces for Thunderstorms and Heavy Rain

An easterly wave and a trough over the southwest Bay of Bengal are bringing instability to southern states.

Forecast Details

• Kerala & Mahe: Thunderstorms, gusty winds (30–40 kmph), and heavy rain on March 12.

• Tamil Nadu, Puducherry & Karaikal: Thunderstorms on March 12, with heavy to very heavy rain in south Tamil Nadu.

• Lakshadweep: Thunderstorms on March 12.

• South Interior Karnataka: Isolated thunderstorms on March 12.

• Andaman & Nicobar Islands: Light to moderate rainfall expected for the next 7 days.

Temperature Forecast: Heatwaves and Warm Nights Ahead

While parts of North India cool down with rain and snow, central and western India will face rising temperatures and heatwave conditions.

Temperature Trends:

Heatwave Warnings (March 12–15):

Additionally, warm night conditions are expected in parts of Gujarat, and hot and humid weather will affect North Kerala, Konkan, and Coastal Karnataka on March 12.

Delhi Weather Outlook (March 12–14, 2025)

The Delhi NCR will witness mild fluctuations in temperature with occasional drizzle and strong winds. Here are the details

Delhi/NCR Forecast Table

Residents in affected regions are advised to stay updated with local weather bulletins, avoid travel during heavy rain or snowfall, and take necessary precautions against thunderstorms and lightning. In heatwave-prone areas, people should stay hydrated, avoid outdoor activities during peak hours, and watch out for signs of heat-related illness.