The weather has taken a sudden turn across the country, including Delhi-NCR. Temperatures have dropped due to rain, strong winds, and snowfall. Traffic has been disrupted in several areas, and the Meteorological Department has issued an alert.
Western Disturbance Triggers Rain, Snowfall Across Northwest India
New Delhi: In Delhi-NCR, the skies remained overcast since morning, and by evening, heavy rain had begun. Strong winds also swept through several areas. This change brought significant relief to residents from the heat and humidity. According to the Meteorological Department, light rain and strong winds—gusting up to 50 km/h—are likely to persist until March 20. A 'Yellow Alert' has been issued in view of this forecast.
The rainfall has led to a decline in temperatures. Over the next 24 hours, temperatures could drop by 4 to 6 degrees Celsius. This is expected to make the weather even more pleasant.
The adverse weather conditions also impacted traffic. Roads in several areas became waterlogged, leading to traffic congestion. At Delhi's Indira Gandhi International Airport, the routes of 22 flights had to be diverted as strong winds and rain made landings difficult.
The weather has changed not only in Delhi but across several other parts of the country as well. Heavy rainfall was recorded in Arunachal Pradesh, Karnataka, Telangana, and Tamil Nadu. Meanwhile, Odisha, Chhattisgarh, and Marathwada witnessed hailstorms. Strong winds, blowing at speeds of 50–70 km/h, swept across several states.
High-altitude areas of Himachal Pradesh and Jammu & Kashmir experienced snowfall. Heavy snow fell in Kullu, Kinnaur, and Lahaul-Spiti. Consequently, routes such as the Atal Tunnel and Sinthan Top were closed. The Vaishno Devi helicopter service also remained suspended due to the weather conditions.
Light rainfall occurred in several parts of Punjab and Haryana, bringing temperatures down below normal levels. A significant drop in temperature was recorded in Amritsar and other cities.
According to the Meteorological Department, rain, strong winds, and hailstorms may continue in several states over the coming days. This will bring a temporary respite from the heat, and the weather is expected to remain cool.
