The Indian Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued an alert for a severe cold wave accompanied by hailstorms in several regions of northern India as the year draws to a close. According to the latest bulletin, a western disturbance is expected to bring widespread weather changes to the western Himalayan region and adjoining plains, starting December 26. This phenomenon could lead to significant rainfall, snow, and hailstorms across various states, further intensifying the ongoing winter chill.
Weather Forecast: Hailstorms and Rain Likely
IMD has warned of adverse weather conditions on December 27 and 28, particularly in the plains and hills of northern India. Key highlights of the forecast include:
- Regions Affected: Hailstorms are expected in Punjab, Haryana, Chandigarh-Delhi, western Uttar Pradesh, Rajasthan, Madhya Pradesh, central Maharashtra, and Marathwada.
- Rainfall: Scattered to widespread rainfall accompanied by thunderstorms and lightning is anticipated across northwestern and central plains during this period.
- Mountainous Areas: The western Himalayan region, including Jammu & Kashmir, Himachal Pradesh, Ladakh, and Uttarakhand, is likely to experience isolated rain and snow from December 27 to 29.
Cold Wave Worsens in Northern India
The IMD has also forecast severe cold wave conditions in parts of Himachal Pradesh and Jammu & Kashmir. Between December 23 and 26, several regions in these states are expected to record sub-zero temperatures. The chilling conditions are attributed to snowfall in higher altitudes, which is expected to exacerbate the cold wave in the plains.
In Kashmir Valley, temperatures have plummeted, with minimums dropping well below freezing. Srinagar recorded a minimum temperature of -3.6°C, while Pahalgam and Gulmarg reported temperatures of -5°C and -4.8°C, respectively. The cold snap has frozen water supply lines and formed thin ice layers over reservoirs, causing significant disruptions.
Advisory for Tourists and Residents
Tourists and residents in the affected areas have been advised to exercise caution due to icy road conditions and the potential for traffic disruptions. The IMD emphasized the need to adhere to local administrative advisories, particularly for travel in higher altitudes where freezing temperatures and snowfall pose significant challenges.
Snowfall Brings Cheer to Himachal Pradesh
In Himachal Pradesh, the winter wonderland has brought joy to locals and tourists alike. On Monday, Shimla was blanketed in snow, creating picturesque views that attracted large crowds to Mall Road and The Ridge. Nearby hill stations, including Kufri and Narkanda, also witnessed heavy snowfall. Local farmers welcomed the snowfall, hoping for a robust apple harvest, while the tourism sector anticipates an influx of visitors during the holiday season.
Severe Cold Across Northern Regions
Across the northern plains, temperatures have dipped significantly. Notable locations include:
- Qazigund: Recorded a minimum of -4.8°C, marking one of the coldest spots in the valley.
- Konibal: Registered a bone-chilling -6°C, making it the coldest place in Kashmir.
The IMD predicts that minimum temperatures in the region may drop by an additional 2-3°C over the next 48 hours.
Bhupendra Singh Chundawat is a seasoned technology journalist with over 22 years of experience in the media industry. He specializes in covering the global technology landscape, with a deep focus on manufacturing trends and the geopolitical impact on tech companies. Currently serving as the Editor at Udaipur Kiran, his insights are shaped by decades of hands-on reporting and editorial leadership in the fast-evolving world of technology.
