The active Western Disturbance has continued to give widespread heavy snow and rain over the hilly states of Jammu and Kashmir, Himachal Pradesh and Uttarakhand. According to Skymet Meteorology Division in India, the system is still prevailing over Jammu and Kashmir and is moving towards the western Himalayas.
In wake of the inclement weather, avalanche threat is also looming large over high altitude areas and local authorities have warned people from venturing out to avoid any untoward incidents.
In a span of 24 hours from 8.30 am on Sunday,Srinagarin Jammu and Kashmir recorded 78.4 mm of rain, Banihal 72.2 mm, Batote 66.2 mm, Bhaderwah 53.8 mm, Gulmarg 40.2 mm andJammu12 mm.
Himachal Pradesh also recorded heavy rain and snowfall withChambarecording 43 mm of rain,Kullu34 mm,Dharamsala31.4 mm,Solan31.3 mm,Kalpa27 mm,Shimla25.5 mm andManali20 mm. In Uttarakhand,Arakotreceived 21 mm,SomeshwarandJakholi20 mm,Tehri19 mm,Lansdowne16 mm andUttarkashi8 mm.
According to weathermen at Skymet, the system is expected to clear in next 24 hours but till then all the three hilly states will continue to receive rain and snow, however, with reduced intensity.
Heavy downpour has resulted in severe cold conditions throughout the hilly region as maximum temperatures have dropped significantly and are now settling below normal by five degrees or so. Meanwhile, minimum temperatures have registered a marginal change.
This season, the frequency of Western Disturbances has been more than usual. And when aligned with induced cyclonic circulations, these systems have given more weather, in terms of intensity, spread and duration.
Western Disturbances become frequent during winters and are responsible for affecting the weather in the region to a large extent. These systems after approaching the region usually stay for 1-2 days and give short spells of rain. The system is called Western Disturbance due to its movement from west to east.
