As the calendar flips to a new year, Northern India, including Delhi-NCR, is bracing for an intense winter spell marked by freezing temperatures, dense fog, and widespread rainfall. A combination of factors, including Western Disturbances and a cyclonic circulation over the Indian Ocean, are contributing to a sharp drop in temperatures, making this one of the coldest starts to the year in recent memory.
Impact of the Western Disturbance on Weather Patterns
The arrival of a fresh Western Disturbance, expected to take hold from January 1, 2025, will significantly alter the weather dynamics in the region. This system, originating over the Western Himalayan region, will bring snowfall and rain across the mountainous and adjoining plains. Key highlights include:
- Heavy Snowfall in the Western Himalayas: States such as Jammu & Kashmir, Ladakh, Gilgit-Baltistan, and Muzaffarabad are forecast to receive heavy snowfall on January 5, creating picturesque yet challenging conditions for residents and travelers.
- Scattered Rainfall in the Plains: Between January 4 and 6, cities including Delhi-NCR, Punjab, Haryana, and Rajasthan will experience light to moderate rainfall, potentially accompanied by gusty winds.
Delhi-NCR: Bracing for a Frosty Welcome to 2025
Residents of Delhi-NCR can expect bone-chilling mornings and evenings shrouded in dense fog. A brief summary of what’s in store:
- January Rainfall: Intermittent light rain is anticipated from January 4 to 6, which, combined with chilly northwesterly winds, will intensify the cold.
- Foggy Mornings: Visibility is expected to drop significantly during early hours, disrupting travel plans and daily routines.
- Daytime Weather: Despite the fog and rain, clear skies are likely during mid-day hours, offering brief relief from the biting cold.
Northern Plains: Severe Cold Wave and Dense Fog
Beyond the capital region, the northern plains are also grappling with an unforgiving cold wave. States such as Uttar Pradesh, Bihar, Rajasthan, and Madhya Pradesh will experience a steep dip in temperatures.
Uttar Pradesh
- Post-rainfall, temperatures have plummeted, leaving residents battling icy winds.
- The mornings are characterized by dense fog, while nights are particularly frigid.
Bihar
- Cold wave conditions are predicted to persist from the first day of the new year, with most districts experiencing low visibility due to fog.
- Winds are expected to clear the fog later in the day, but the mercury is unlikely to rise significantly.
Rajasthan and Madhya Pradesh
- These states are witnessing the double impact of northern icy winds and dense fog, severely disrupting daily life.
- Expect bone-numbing cold mornings and cold days for the coming week.
Heavy Rain and Storms in Southern India
While the north is battling extreme cold, Southern India is contending with a different challenge. A cyclonic circulation over the Indian Ocean and the southwestern Bay of Bengal has triggered heavy rain and thunderstorms over parts of Tamil Nadu and Kerala.
- Southern Tamil Nadu: Likely to witness intense thunderstorms and heavy downpours, impacting agriculture and transportation.
- Kerala: Coastal areas could face localized flooding due to persistent rain.
A New Year Marked by Weather Extremes
As India steps into 2025, the stark contrast in weather patterns between the north and south showcases the country’s diverse climatic challenges. Whether it’s snow-covered peaks, fog-laden plains, or storm-hit coasts, the beginning of the year promises to test the resilience of residents and travelers alike.
Stay tuned for more updates as the weather evolves, and prepare for a frosty and eventful start to the new year.
