IMD Issues Yellow Alert for Thunderstorms and Gusty Winds in Haryana
The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued a significant weather alert for several districts in Haryana, forecasting thunderstorms accompanied by lightning and gusty winds reaching speeds of 40 to 50 kilometers per hour. This alert is specifically for March 19 and 20, 2024, indicating a shift from the stable conditions expected on March 17 and 18.
District-Wise Warnings and Weather Patterns
According to the Meteorological Centre in Chandigarh, the change in weather is attributed to the influence of a western disturbance affecting northwest India. This atmospheric phenomenon is common during the pre-summer transition period and can trigger brief spells of rain, thunderstorms, and strong winds across the region.
Yellow alerts have been activated for the following districts on both days:
- Ambala
- Panchkula
- Yamunanagar
- Kurukshetra
- Karnal
- Panipat
- Sonipat
- Rohtak
The warning is expected to expand to most districts by March 20, suggesting more widespread thunderstorm activity. Residents in these areas are strongly advised to take precautions due to the elevated risks associated with lightning strikes and powerful winds.
Southern Districts Under Milder Conditions
In contrast, southern districts including Gurgaon, Faridabad, Rewari, Mahendragarh, and Mewat are likely to experience relatively milder weather until March 19. However, weather officials caution that isolated thunderstorm activity cannot be entirely ruled out later, as the western disturbance's effects may vary locally.
Temperature Records and Anomalies
Meanwhile, Gurgaon recorded the highest maximum temperature in Haryana on Monday, reaching 36°C at the Sohna Road weather station. This reading is approximately 6.3 degrees above the normal range for this time of year, highlighting significant temperature anomalies.
Other weather stations in Gurgaon district reported lower temperatures:
- Gurgaon AWS: 29.8°C
- Gurgaon KVK: 30°C
- NorthCap University: 31.8°C
These variations underscore the localized nature of weather patterns and the importance of monitoring multiple data sources for accurate forecasts. The IMD continues to advise residents to stay updated on weather developments and prepare for potential disruptions caused by the impending thunderstorms.
