IMD issues orange alert for snow, rain in Himachal Pradesh
What's the story
The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued an orange alert for Himachal Pradesh as heavy rain and snowfall are expected on Monday. The change in weather is attributed to a fresh western disturbance affecting the Western Himalayan region. The warning is particularly for Chamba, Kangra, and Lahaul-Spiti districts where heavy snowfall and rain are likely. Light to moderate rain/snow in isolated areas is expected on Wednesday, with more widespread precipitation on Tuesday.
Regional impact
Weather disturbance to impact northern India
Weather disturbances are also expected to cause rain and snow in Jammu-Kashmir-Ladakh-Gilgit-Baltistan-Muzaffarabad, Uttarakhand, Punjab, Haryana, and Chandigarh. In Uttarakhand's Chamoli district, a recent avalanche killed eight people while 46 were rescued. Thunderstorms and lightning are likely in Chamoli, Uttarkashi, and Rudraprayag districts. The IMD's alert highlights the possibility of severe weather changes across these regions.
Infrastructure impact
Adverse weather disrupts Himachal Pradesh infrastructure
The recent adverse weather in Himachal Pradesh has wreaked havoc. As of Sunday, 365 roads and three national highways continue to remain closed. Meanwhile, 1,377 power transformers and 269 water supply schemes have been disrupted. Restoration work is currently underway under the supervision of Revenue Minister Jagat Singh Negi. The IMD predicts that weather conditions will improve from March 5 onwards.
Delhi forecast
Delhi records moderate AQI, predicts misty weather
Delhi recorded a maximum temperature of 27 degrees Celsius on Sunday with an Air Quality Index (AQI) of 119, falling under the 'moderate' category. Monday's forecast includes mist with temperatures between 13 and 29 degrees Celsius. This comes as the weather in the state remained dry, and maximum temperatures increased significantly on Sunday.
Regional forecast
South India and Northeast to experience rainfall
Elsewhere, isolated rainfall is expected in Kerala and Tamil Nadu in South India due to easterly waves. Assam and Meghalaya, in the northeastern part of the country, may also see rainfall on March 3. The IMD advises caution as another western disturbance is anticipated in the coming days. Light to moderate rainfall and snowfall are expected in Punjab, Haryana, and Chandigarh on March 3.