Delhiites bundled themselves in layers as the national capital witnessed its coldest day of the month so far, with the minimum temperature plummeting to a bone-chilling 5.3°C. This frosty reading, courtesy of the Indian Meteorological Department (IMD), matched the chilly climes of the popular hill station, Nainital. The maximum temperature of 17.5°C offered little respite, falling slightly below the seasonal average.
But wait, the icy grip isn’t letting go just yet! The IMD predicts cold to severe cold day conditions to persist in parts of Delhi on Tuesday, before gradually abating in the following days. While the sky might crack a smile and reveal some sun, a chance of light rain or drizzle could add a damp touch to the already nippy air.
Shifting gears further west, Rajasthan, the land of forts and fiery sands, is gearing up for a different kind of weather drama. Rain clouds are gathering on the horizon, promising much-needed showers to the parched desert state. The IMD forecasts scattered rainfall across various districts, particularly in the western and northern regions, starting from Wednesday and intensifying over the weekend.
This isn’t just a cold snap or a passing drizzle, folks. Let’s delve deeper into what’s causing these weather shifts and what lies ahead:
Unraveling the Cold Wave:
Western Disturbance: An active western disturbance, a weather system originating from the Mediterranean Sea, is currently sweeping across North India. This system brings cold, dry winds that cool down the temperatures significantly.
Snowfall in the Himalayas: Fresh snowfall in the higher reaches of the Himalayas is further intensifying the cold wave by sending down frigid air currents.
Clear Skies at Night: With clear skies and minimal cloud cover, the heat radiated by the earth escapes quickly, leading to rapid temperature drops at night.
Raindrops in the Desert:
Another Western Disturbance: A separate western disturbance is expected to make its way towards Rajasthan by midweek, bringing along moisture and triggering rainfall.
La Niña: The ongoing La Niña phenomenon, characterized by cooler-than-average sea surface temperatures in the equatorial Pacific Ocean, is influencing weather patterns across the globe and contributing to increased winter precipitation in North India.
What to Expect:
Delhi: Brace for continued cold days with temperatures hovering around 5-8°C for the next few days. Light rain or drizzle is also a possibility.
Rajasthan: Scattered rainfall starting from Wednesday, intensifying towards the weekend. The western and northern districts are likely to receive the most rainfall.
Other Northern States: Cold wave conditions are expected to persist in Punjab, Haryana, Himachal Pradesh, and Jammu & Kashmir for the next few days.
Tips for the Season:
Bundle up! Wear warm clothes, layer up if necessary, and don’t forget gloves, hats, and scarves.
Stay hydrated: Even though it’s cold, your body still needs water. Drink plenty of warm fluids to stay hydrated.
Take care of your skin: The dry, cold air can be harsh on your skin. Use a good moisturizer and lip balm to keep your skin protected.
Avoid venturing out at night if possible, especially if it’s foggy or icy.
If you have any respiratory problems, be extra cautious and consult a doctor if needed.
Beyond the Forecast:
This cold wave and Rajasthan’s rain are just glimpses into the complex tapestry of Indian weather. Understanding these events allows us to appreciate the intricate interplay of geographical features, global climate patterns, and seasonal shifts. It also highlights the importance of weather forecasting in planning our daily lives, managing agriculture, and preparing for natural disasters.
So, while you snuggle under a warm blanket tonight, remember, weather is not just about temperatures and raindrops. It’s a dynamic story unfolding around us, shaping our lives and influencing our world in ways we might not even realize. Stay curious, stay informed, and appreciate the ever-changing spectacle of the weather!
