Cold, stormy weather expected in Northwest India till April 6
What's the story
A powerful Western Disturbance is set to hit Northwest India, bringing with it extreme weather conditions, including rain and hailstorms. The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has warned that the disturbance will reach its peak on April 3 and 4, with heavy rainfall expected in Kashmir Valley. The weather system is likely to continue affecting central parts of the country till April 6.
Weather forecast
Western Disturbance to impact several states
Dr. Pradeep, a climate scientist, said on social media that the Western Disturbance will affect several states. Jammu and Kashmir and Ladakh are likely to witness heavy rain and mountain snowfall. Punjab and Rajasthan may see thunderstorms and gusty winds, while Gujarat could be impacted along its northern borders. Isolated thunderstorms are also expected in Haryana, Delhi NCR, and West Uttar Pradesh, among other regions.
Climate expert insights
Jet streams expected to intensify storms
Mahesh Palawat from Skymet Weather said the wavy nature of the jet stream could increase the impact of Western Disturbances in lower latitudes. This phenomenon is linked to rapid warming of the Arctic. Navdeep Dahiya, an amateur weather enthusiast, also noted that "jet streams perfectly U Shaped for the upcoming western disturbance starting from 3rd April." "Entire north, west India to experience cold front rains, hails and storms. States in center...southern peninsula to experience intense evening storms," Dahiya said.
Weather trends
Eight western disturbances in March
March witnessed eight Western Disturbances, higher than the normal five to six. At least three more are expected through mid-April, per HT. This is in stark contrast to January and February, which had fewer such disturbances, leading to low snowfall across the Himalayas. Western disturbances are moisture-laden cyclonic systems originating over the Mediterranean Sea and traveling eastward along a high-altitude jet stream.