When most parts of the country are witnessing pleasant weather, people of the hilly states of Jammu and Kashmir and Himachal Pradesh continue to reel under chilly weather. Remnants of the recent Western Disturbance along with a feeble cyclonic circulation continue to give rain over isolated parts of the hilly states and foothills.
According to Skymet Meteorology Division in India, prolonged spell of rain has led significant drop in both maximum and minimum temperatures across the region, leaving people to brave extremely cold weather.
In a span of last 24 hours, Gulmarg in Jammu and Kashmir recorded 9 mm of rain, Srinagar 2 mm, Banihal 2 mm, Katra 1.4 mm and Qazikund and Jammu both 0.8 mm. In Himachal Pradesh, Solan received 2.8 mm, Kullu 1.6 mm and Shimla 0.9 mm. Meanwhile, Amritsar in Punjab also witnessed 3 mm of rain.
Rainy spell of region does not seem to be coming to an end very soon, as another Western Disturbance is approaching North India. The system is likely to affect by March 7, which will bring heavy snow and rain over hilly states, while plains of Punjab and adjoining Haryana will see some light showers. Delhi might also see some clouding in evening coupled with light rain in the night.
However, major impact of the system on the northern plains can be seen on March 8 when light to moderate rain is expected to lash parts of Punjab, Haryana, Delhi, North Rajasthan, east Uttar Pradesh and also extending up to Madhya Pradesh and Maharashtra.
In wake of the system, the minimum temperatures that have been settling in single digit, would register a significant increase, bringing respite from the cold nights.
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.
