Weather Update: Cold Wave, Dense Fog to Hit Himachal Pradesh, Punjab, Haryana, Rajasthan, Delhi; Heavy Rainfall Expected in Andhra Pradesh and Western Himalayas

India Meteorological Department (IMD) has released a weather update, noting significant changes occurring across the country due to various active weather systems. The forecast includes rainfall and snowfall in the northern regions, as well as dense fog and cold wave conditions in certain areas. Key developments and safety advisories for the upcoming days have also been outlined.

Weather Systems in Action

1. Depression Over Bay of Bengal

• Location: Centered near 14.0°N and 84.5°E, approximately 430 km south-southeast of Visakhapatnam (Andhra Pradesh).

• Movement: Expected to move east-northeastwards, maintaining intensity for the next 12 hours before gradually weakening.

• Impact: Light to moderate rainfall with isolated heavy spells likely in Coastal Andhra Pradesh and Rayalaseema (December 24–26).

2. Cyclonic Circulations

• South Rajasthan: Lower tropospheric cyclonic circulation persists.

• Western Disturbance: A fresh cyclonic circulation lies over Iraq and may bring rainfall and snowfall to the Western Himalayan Region.

3. Upcoming Western Disturbance

• Expected to affect Northwest India from the night of December 26, potentially causing widespread rainfall/snowfall over the Western Himalayan Region.

• Thunderstorms and hailstorms likely in Punjab, Haryana, Rajasthan, and Madhya Pradesh on December 27–28.

Rainfall and Snowfall Forecast

The IMD forecasts significant rainfall and snowfall across different regions due to active weather systems. While some areas of the Himalayas are expected to receive light to widespread snow, isolated heavy rainfall is likely in the southern regions.

Temperature and Cold Wave Updates

Cold wave conditions grip parts of North and Central India as minimum temperatures drop significantly. With some regions reporting sub-zero temperatures, the IMD forecasts a gradual rise in the coming days, though severe cold persists in isolated areas.

• Minimum Temperatures:

• Below 0°C in parts of Jammu, Kashmir, Ladakh, and Himachal Pradesh.

• Lowest recorded temperature: 1.8°C in Adampur (Punjab).

• Forecast:

• Gradual rise of 2–3°C in Northwest and Central India after 24 hours.

• Cold wave to severe cold wave conditions likely in Himachal Pradesh (December 22–23) and parts of Jammu & Kashmir, Punjab, and Rajasthan on December 22.

Fog and Frost Warnings

Dense fog and ground frost are expected to impact visibility and agricultural activity in several northern and northeastern states. The IMD has issued warnings for reduced visibility during late-night and early-morning hours, urging caution for travelers.

Delhi/NCR Weather Forecast

Delhi and its neighboring areas are expected to witness clear skies with varying fog intensity over the next few days. While smog persists at night, occasional light rain and cold conditions will dominate as the winter weather intensifies.

Residents are advised to stay cautious due to cold waves, dense fog, and heavy rainfall in various regions. Dress warmly, drive safely in foggy areas, and avoid venturing into affected sea regions. Stay updated with IMD alerts for any changes.