Delhi Back To Double Digit Minimum, Pleasant Week Ahead

Base observatory at Safdarjung has recorded minimum temperature of 10.2°C today morning. Double digit minima is resumed after nearly one week. Earlier, the minimum temperature remained in single digit between 10^thFeb and 16^thFeb, with the lowest of 7°C recorded on 13^thFeb.

Before that, three more days had gone in to double digit under the influence of clouding and rain on 04^th, 08^thand 09^thFeb. Capital city has recorded 18.6mm of rainfall so far in February, against the monthly normal of 22.1mm.

Winters seem to be receding and possibly running its last leg. Western disturbance moving across the northern parts are the main drivers and decisive factor of duration and intensity of winter season over North India, including Delhi. There are western disturbances in sufficient number passing across northern mountains.

However, these are rather weak and porous, unable to impact weather conditions over the plains effectively. Currently, the western disturbance is tracking along Jammu & Kashmir and Ladakh and is likely to stay for three days between 17^th and 19^thFeb, affecting meekly the mid and higher reaches. There is another system of similar nature following between 22^nd and 23^rd Feb.

Weather systems in quick succession during the second half of February will control the wind pattern over the plains. Extreme cold is not likely in the national capital in the remaining days of February. The minimum temperature will get restricted between 9-10°C for the next one week and may reach low teens by the fag end of the month. The strong surface winds are likely between 19^th and 23^rdFeb.

These will suppress the day temperature, despite sunshine, and limit the mercury level in the range of 25-26°C. Slight chill the morning and pleasantly warm afternoons are going to be the hallmark for the next one week. Partial cloud cover may come up in between for a day or two.

An active western disturbance is expected to arrive, but not before 26^thFeb. Weather conditions may turn and twist for the last 2 days of the month. Even some rain and showers may splash some parts. Little early to predict firmly at this stage and more clarity by start of next week. Overall, winter season looks to be counting days now, albeit offering pleasant spell till the end of month.