Scattered Rain to Lash Northwest India Between February 1st and 4th

The period between January 1st and January 30th has witnessed a significant rainfall deficit across India, with Pan India rainfall falling short by 72%. In Northwest India, the deficit has been even more severe, at a staggering 81%. Except for East Rajasthan which is rain excess by 23%, all the meteorological divisions in this region are either deficient or severely deficient in rainfall. However, this dry spell is about to break, as two back-to-back Western disturbances are set to impact Northwest India and the western Himalayas between February 1st and 4th.

The first spell of rain will begin on February 1st, bringing scattered showers to Punjab. Light rain may also affect North Haryana. The rain will gradually extend to other parts of the region, with another significant spell of rain and thunderstorms expected over Punjab, Haryana, West Uttar Pradesh, and parts of Delhi NCR on February 3rd and 4th. This weather activity is expected to bring some relief to the region after a prolonged dry phase.

Along with the rainfall, moderate to heavy snowfall is expected over the Western Himalayan region from February 1st to 4th, with the heaviest snowfall likely to occur on February 1st, 2nd, and 4th. The snowfall could be substantial, particularly in higher altitudes, which may affect the mountain passes and local weather conditions.

As these Western disturbances approach, the minimum temperatures in Northwest and Central India are expected to remain above normal until February 4th. However, after this period, cold winds from the snow-covered mountains will sweep across the region, bringing a sharp dip in minimum temperatures. Areas like Punjab, Haryana, Delhi, Rajasthan, Gujarat, West Madhya Pradesh, and parts of North Maharashtra will experience a noticeable drop in temperature, with a return to cold winter conditions.

This series of rainfall and snowfall events will be beneficial for agriculture, especially in regions dependent on the Rabi crop season. The rain will help replenish soil moisture, which has been lacking due to the deficient rainfall in January. Farmers in the affected areas are likely to see improvements in crop growth, thanks to the much-needed precipitation.

In summary, the period between February 1st and 4th will bring welcome rainfall to Northwest India, offering relief to dry conditions and benefiting the region's agriculture. The cold temperatures following the disturbances will mark a return to winter, with the potential for more challenges for the region in the coming weeks.