New Delhi: Spring has sprung in the plains of North India, bringing a welcome respite from the scorching summer heat. While the days are turning pleasantly warm, mornings and evenings still carry a slight chill. However, the weather pattern takes a dramatic shift as we move towards the hilly regions, where recent days have seen fresh snowfall and rain.
Current Weather Snapshot:
- Delhi: The capital city enjoys sunshine during the day, but a pleasant coolness lingers in the mornings and evenings.
- Himachal Pradesh: The state witnessed intermittent rain and storm on Wednesday, leading to temporary highway closures.
- Kashmir: Fresh snowfall graced the higher reaches, while the plains experienced rainfall. Srinagar witnessed intermittent rain throughout the night.
IMD Forecast for the Next Few Days:
The India Meteorological Department (IMD) predicts a mix of weather conditions across various North Indian states:
- Sub-Himalayan West Bengal & Sikkim: Light rain and snowfall are expected until March 16th.
- Odisha: Light rain is likely from March 14th to 20th.
- Himachal Pradesh: The local weather office predicts rain, snowfall, and isolated storms in the high-altitude regions.
- Other Potentially Affected States: Light rain and snowfall with thunderstorms and lightning are possible in Sub-Himalayan and Gangetic West Bengal, Sikkim, Jharkhand, Vidarbha, Chhattisgarh, and East Madhya Pradesh.
- North-Eastern States: Arunachal Pradesh might see rain and snowfall until March 19th. Light rain is forecast for Assam, Meghalaya, Nagaland, Manipur, Mizoram, and Tripura until March 17th.
Impact on Health:
The sudden change in weather can significantly impact public health. Doctors have reported an increase in cases of common illnesses like cold and fever.
Going Beyond the Headlines:
While the initial heatwave might be receding, it’s crucial to stay informed about the weather updates. Here are some additional pointers to stay prepared:
- Monitor weather forecasts regularly: Staying updated on the IMD’s predictions allows you to plan your daily activities accordingly.
- Dress in layers: The fluctuating temperatures necessitate dressing in layers to adjust to the changing weather conditions.
- Carry necessary gear: An umbrella or raincoat becomes essential during unexpected rain showers.
- Prioritize health: With the rise in seasonal illnesses, maintaining good hygiene and taking precautions like washing hands frequently is vital.
