North India to see rain, snow due to western disturbances; IMD issues alert

The IMD has issued alerts for rain, snowfall and dense fog across north India, with western disturbances set to impact the region in the coming days

Delhi woke up to dense fog on Saturday, with reduced visibility during the early morning hours affecting road and rail movement in parts of the national capital. The India Meteorological Department (IMD) said dense to very dense fog conditions are likely to persist during night and early morning hours over the next couple of days. The city may also witness light rain as western disturbances influence weather patterns across north India.

 

Day temperatures in Delhi are expected to remain near normal, while minimum temperatures could dip slightly due to cold northerly winds. The IMD has advised commuters to remain cautious, particularly during early morning travel, as fog may continue to disrupt schedules.

 

Multiple western disturbances active

 

According to the IMD, at least three western disturbances are expected to affect India in quick succession. The first two systems are likely to impact the western Himalayan region and adjoining plains over the next few days, followed by another disturbance later in the week. These systems are expected to bring widespread cloudiness, rainfall and snowfall across north and northwest India.

 

Under their influence, light to moderate rainfall is likely over Punjab, Haryana, Chandigarh, Delhi, Uttar Pradesh and parts of Rajasthan. Isolated thunderstorms accompanied by gusty winds may also occur in some areas.

 

Snowfall in the Himalayas, alerts issued

 

In the western Himalayan region, including Jammu and Kashmir, Himachal Pradesh and Uttarakhand, light to moderate snowfall is very likely at higher altitudes. Some pockets may witness heavy snowfall, particularly in the higher reaches of Himachal Pradesh and Uttarakhand.

 

The IMD has issued weather alerts for these regions, warning of possible disruption to road connectivity, especially in hill districts. In high-altitude areas, fresh snowfall could also increase the risk of avalanches, prompting authorities to urge residents and tourists to follow advisories closely.

 

Cold wave and dense fog across plains

 

Cold wave conditions are likely to prevail in isolated pockets over northwest and central India. States such as Punjab, Haryana, Rajasthan and parts of Uttar Pradesh may continue to experience chilly nights, with temperatures dipping below normal levels.

 

Dense fog conditions are also expected in parts of north and central India, particularly during late night and early morning hours. The IMD has cautioned that visibility may drop sharply in some areas, increasing transport delays.

 

Outlook for the coming days

 

The IMD said the ongoing spell of winter weather is likely to continue into early February, with alternating phases of fog, cold conditions and precipitation. While the rain and snowfall may bring some relief to dry regions and boost water availability in the hills, authorities have advised people to remain alert to rapidly changing weather conditions.