IMD Forecasts Two Western Disturbances to Impact Northwest India This Week
The India Meteorological Department (IMD) issued a significant weather alert on Sunday, forecasting that two western disturbances in rapid succession are set to affect northwest India this week. The peak activity of these weather systems is expected on April 7-8, leading to below-normal to near-normal day temperatures across the region and triggering a wet spell.
Understanding Western Disturbances
A western disturbance (WD) is an extratropical cyclone that originates in the Mediterranean region. It is known for bringing sudden rains and snow to the northern parts of the Indian subcontinent, often disrupting normal weather patterns and impacting daily life and agriculture.
Nationwide Temperature Trends
IMD further elaborated that day temperatures are likely to remain below normal to near normal over most parts of the country during the next seven days. This widespread effect is due to various weather phenomena occurring in different regions. These include the western disturbances in northwest India, a cyclonic circulation over the west central Bay of Bengal off south coastal Andhra Pradesh in lower tropospheric levels, an upper-air cyclonic circulation over Rayalaseema, and a trough running from this upper-air cyclonic circulation to the Gulf of Mannar.
Wet Spell and Thunderstorm Activity
These combined factors will result in a wet spell with thunderstorms and lightning over central, east, and peninsular India until April 9. States that may experience such adverse weather conditions include Chhattisgarh, Madhya Pradesh, sub-Himalayan West Bengal and Sikkim, Bihar, and Jharkhand. Residents in these areas are advised to stay updated with local weather warnings and take necessary precautions.
Temperature Fluctuations in Northwest India
The India Meteorological Department provided specific details on temperature changes in northwest India. Maximum (day) temperatures are expected to rise by 2-4 degrees Celsius until April 6. However, a gradual fall of 2-4 degrees is forecasted for April 7-8, followed by a gradual rise of 2-4 degrees during April 9-11. This fluctuation highlights the dynamic nature of the weather systems affecting the region.
In summary, the IMD's forecast underscores the impact of western disturbances on India's weather, with significant implications for temperature and precipitation patterns across multiple states this week.
