India Faces Multi-Hazard Weather Event as Western Disturbances Intensify
A significant spell of unsettled weather is poised to impact extensive regions of India starting from January 31, 2026, driven by multiple western disturbances and associated cyclonic circulations that are set to influence atmospheric conditions across the subcontinent. According to the All India Weather Summary and Forecast Bulletin issued on January 30, 2026, meteorologists anticipate widespread rainfall, snowfall, thunderstorms, gusty winds, hailstorms, and dense fog in various parts of the country over the coming days.
Meteorological Drivers Behind the Unstable Weather
Analysis of the current meteorological situation reveals that an induced upper-air cyclonic circulation over southwest Rajasthan, extending up to 1.5 km above mean sea level, is expected to enhance moisture inflow and atmospheric instability. Furthermore, two additional western disturbances are forecast to impact northwest India, with one arriving from the night of February 2 and another around February 5, prolonging the active weather scenario.
Rainfall and Snowfall Expected in Western Himalayan Region
From January 31 onwards, scattered to fairly widespread rainfall and snowfall is likely over the Western Himalayan region, encompassing Jammu and Kashmir, Ladakh, Himachal Pradesh, and Uttarakhand. These areas are expected to experience thunderstorms accompanied by lightning and gusty winds, with wind speeds reaching 30-40 kmph and gusting up to 50 kmph at isolated locations.
Snowfall in the higher reaches may lead to temporary disruptions in road connectivity, particularly in mountain passes and isolated regions. The forecast indicates that Uttarakhand will continue to face active weather patterns until early February, with thunderstorms and gusty winds at isolated places. Himachal Pradesh is also set to experience unstable weather, especially around the start of February, due to moisture-laden systems moving eastward.
Thunderstorms, Hailstorms, and Rain Over Northwest and Central India
Beyond the mountainous areas, parts of Punjab, Haryana, Chandigarh, Delhi, Rajasthan, and Uttar Pradesh are likely to encounter thunderstorms, lightning, and strong surface winds in the next few days. A primary concern is the potential for hailstorm activity in west Rajasthan on January 31, and in east Rajasthan from January 31 to February 1.
Thunderstorms along with gusty winds are probable in West Uttar Pradesh on various days, while isolated rainfall accompanied by lightning is possible in East Uttar Pradesh and East Madhya Pradesh. Although heavy rainfall is not expected in the plains, the combination of wind, lightning, and scattered rainfall may disrupt daily routines for residents.
Dense Fog to Persist Across Northern and Eastern India
The forecast also underscores a continued fog hazard, particularly during night and early morning hours, across much of north and east India. Dense to very dense fog is likely over Uttar Pradesh until January 31, with isolated dense fog conditions persisting in east Uttar Pradesh into February 1.
Other regions anticipated to experience fog include Punjab, Haryana, Chandigarh, Himachal Pradesh, Uttarakhand, east Rajasthan, Bihar, north Madhya Pradesh, Odisha, sub-Himalayan West Bengal, Sikkim, Assam, Meghalaya, and Chhattisgarh. These conditions can significantly reduce visibility, especially on highways and in riverine and low-lying areas.
Potential Impact on Transportation and Aviation
The India Meteorological Department has issued an alert warning that dense to very dense fog could adversely affect road, rail, and air transport in various states. Road transport may become hazardous due to low visibility, potentially leading to traffic congestion and accidents. Delays in train operations are also possible in fog-prone areas.
The general outlook suggests that isolated to scattered rainfall and snowfall will continue in the Western Himalayan region, with some areas of Punjab, Uttar Pradesh, Tamil Nadu, and Madhya Pradesh also likely to see scattered rainfall. Given the expectation of more western disturbances in early February, the active weather pattern in northwest India is projected to extend beyond the current forecast period.
Authorities have advised residents and travelers to remain vigilant by staying updated with the latest forecasts and advisories. The combined effects of fog, hailstorms, thunderstorms, and gusty winds could collectively impact transportation and outdoor activities in the coming days, necessitating caution and preparedness.
