The capital city of India, Delhi, is expected to witness mostly cloudy weather today with areas of smoke and haze, leading to reduced visibility at times. The maximum temperature is forecasted to reach 22°C, while the minimum is expected to be around 11°C.
Widespread Rain and Thunderstorms Across Northern Regions
The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued forecasts for various regions across the country. Today, widespread rain and snow accompanied by thunderstorms are likely over Jammu-Kashmir, Ladakh, Himachal Pradesh, and Uttarakhand. Fairly widespread rain with thunderstorms is expected over Uttar Pradesh and Bihar, while Sikkim and Arunachal Pradesh may experience fairly widespread rain or snow. Punjab is likely to see scattered rain with thunderstorms, and isolated rain is forecasted over Sub-Himalayan West Bengal, Assam, Jharkhand, Chhattisgarh, Madhya Pradesh, and Haryana.
IMD's Forecast and Weather Systems
The IMD has highlighted several weather systems influencing the current weather patterns. A Western Disturbance coupled with a cyclonic circulation over central Afghanistan and the North Arabian Sea is leading to significant moisture feeding from the Arabian Sea to northwest India. This is resulting in widespread light to moderate rainfall and snowfall over the Western Himalayan Region till March 3rd, 2024.
In addition, isolated to scattered rain accompanied by thunderstorms and lightning is expected over various parts of the country, including Madhya Maharashtra, Marathwada, Vidarbha, Chhattisgarh, Bihar, Jharkhand, Sub-Himalayan West Bengal, and Sikkim.
Agromet Advisories and Precautionary Measures
The IMD has issued agromet advisories due to the likelihood of heavy rainfall, gusty winds, and hailstorms in several regions. Farmers are advised to harvest matured crops such as wheat, jowar, and gram in Madhya Maharashtra and Marathwada promptly. Additionally, precautionary measures such as using hail nets in fruit orchards and making arrangements to drain excess water from crop fields are recommended in affected areas.
Impact and Actions Suggested
Given the forecasted thunderstorms, lightning, and hailstorms, certain impacts are expected, including damage to crops, horticulture, and structures, as well as potential injuries to people and cattle. The IMD suggests staying indoors, avoiding travel, and taking necessary precautions such as unplugging electrical appliances and seeking safe shelter during adverse weather conditions.
As various weather systems continue to influence the weather across India, it is essential for residents, particularly farmers and those in vulnerable areas, to stay informed about the latest forecasts and take appropriate measures to mitigate potential risks posed by adverse weather conditions.
