As Diwali approaches, North India may experience a significant shift in weather patterns, with winter-like conditions forecast for several states due to an impending strong Western Disturbance. This meteorological event is expected to impact the region between October 24 and 26, bringing moderate to heavy rainfall and a notable dip in temperatures, setting the stage for a cooler, winter-like atmosphere just in time for the festival. The Western Disturbance is projected to affect key northern states such as Jammu and Kashmir, Himachal Pradesh, Punjab, northern Haryana, and Uttarakhand. Meteorologists have predicted that this system will bring moderate to isolated heavy rainfall to these areas. The mountainous regions, in particular, are likely to see substantial precipitation, signaling the transition from monsoon to winter in the northern parts of the country.
However, there remains uncertainty about whether this weather event will extend its influence to the Delhi-NCR region. While the northern states brace for rain and cooler weather, it is unclear if Delhi will experience significant rainfall as part of this disturbance. Western Disturbances are a common phenomenon in North India during this time of year and play a crucial role in the onset of winter, but the extent of their reach can vary depending on various atmospheric conditions. For residents of North India, especially those in states like Jammu and Kashmir and Himachal Pradesh, the upcoming weather shift is a much-anticipated development as it may bring an early taste of winter. With Diwali celebrations around the corner, cooler temperatures and occasional showers could add a refreshing touch to the festive atmosphere.
Meanwhile, down south, Tamil Nadu and Karnataka have been grappling with heavy rainfall over the past few days, prompting authorities to close schools and colleges, and advising companies to allow employees to work from home. The inclement weather has also led to several flight cancellations, causing disruption in daily life. In Chennai, residents finally saw some respite on Wednesday morning when the rain stopped, offering a break from the continuous downpour. However, a low-pressure system over the southwest and southeast Bay of Bengal has intensified into a depression, and it is moving northwestward at about 10 km per hour. The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued a statement warning that this system could bring more significant weather changes in the coming days.
The IMD has further forecasted heavy to very heavy rainfall for parts of southern Andhra Pradesh and northeastern Tamil Nadu over the next 24 to 36 hours. Southern Karnataka is also expected to see renewed rainfall during this period. This spells continued weather-related challenges for these regions, where the impact of ongoing rainfall is already being felt. As these weather systems unfold across the country, residents in the affected areas are urged to remain vigilant and stay updated with forecasts. The upcoming days will be crucial in determining how widespread and intense the effects of the Western Disturbance and low-pressure systems will be. For now, North India prepares for what could be an early winter chill, while the southern states brace for more rain.