Monsoon Forecast: North India Braces for Rain, Thunderstorms, and Hailstorms

New Delhi: Weather Changes Bring Relief and Disruptions Across Multiple States

The weather across North India is undergoing a dramatic shift as rain, thunderstorms, and hailstorms continue to affect multiple regions. The Indian Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued alerts for several states, forecasting rainfall, strong winds, and temperature drops due to the western disturbance.

Monsoon

Delhi, Uttar Pradesh Witness Falling Temperatures

Over the past few days, Delhi and western Uttar Pradesh have experienced light drizzles, leading to a drop in temperature and a noticeable increase in cold conditions during morning and evening hours. In Uttarakhand, both the plains and hilly areas have seen continuous rain, further cooling the atmosphere.

According to the IMD, strong winds are likely to persist from March 17 to March 18, potentially intensifying the cold spell in the region.

Hailstorms Strike Haryana and Rajasthan, Temperature Drops Further

Severe hailstorms have been reported in several parts of Haryana and Rajasthan, contributing to a significant temperature drop. The weather in these states is expected to remain volatile, with cloudy skies, sporadic rainfall, and strong winds predicted over the coming days.

Rain Alert Issued for Madhya Pradesh

The scorching heat in Madhya Pradesh has been troubling residents, but relief is on the way. According to the IMD, an incoming weather system will bring rainfall and thunderstorms to several districts across the state.

  • The western disturbance is expected to influence the weather, resulting in rain showers and strong winds.
  • Certain areas may also experience hailstorms, further cooling the temperature.
  • Himachal Pradesh, on the other hand, is likely to witness snowfall, adding to the existing cold conditions in the hill state.

Jharkhand Experiences Heatwave, But Relief Expected Soon

Jharkhand has been reeling under intense heat, with temperatures exceeding 40 degrees Celsius in at least seven districts. The hot winds sweeping across the state have led to the issuance of a “yellow alert” by the IMD.

However, changes are expected soon:

  • March 19: A drop in temperature is anticipated due to rain and thundershowers.
  • March 19-20: Light rainfall is expected across the state, influenced by moisture from the Bay of Bengal and the western disturbance.
  • March 21-22: Light to moderate rainfall is expected, cooling the atmosphere significantly.
  • Residents have been advised to avoid stepping out between 12 PM and 3 PM, as hot winds could still pose health risks.

Heavy Rainfall Alert for Uttar Pradesh on March 17

The IMD has issued a rain and thunderstorm alert for multiple districts of Uttar Pradesh on March 17, warning of heavy rainfall, strong winds, and lightning.

Districts Expected to Receive Heavy Rainfall:

  • Jhansi, Mahoba, Lalitpur, Jalaun, Kanpur, Kannauj, Etawah – Likely to witness heavy rain with thunderstorms.
  • Mainpuri, Hardoi, Sitapur, Farrukhabad, Kasganj – Strong winds and rainfall expected.
  • Badaun, Gautam Buddha Nagar, Saharanpur, Ghaziabad, Muzaffarnagar – High chances of rain with thunder and lightning.
  • Shamli, Meerut, Aligarh, Mathura, Agra, Firozabad, Hathras – Risk of heavy rainfall with strong winds.
  • Bareilly, Rampur, Amroha – Expected to receive moderate to heavy rainfall accompanied by lightning.

Potential Weather Disruptions and Advisory

  • Farmers are advised to take necessary precautions as hailstorms and heavy rain may damage crops.
  • People should avoid traveling during heavy thunderstorms to prevent accidents and traffic disruptions.
  • Residents should secure loose objects outdoors, as strong winds may lead to property damage.
  • Those in hailstorm-affected regions should seek shelter to avoid injuries from falling hailstones.