Brief period of clear weather in North India; another spell of rain expected

Two back to back western disturbances gave some good amounts of precipitation in the hills and plains of North India. Srinagar for the first time in this season received snow on January 29, which is unusual for the place. As soon as winter knocks at the doors of North India, Srinagar is normally the first city in the lower reaches of the hills to receive snowfall. But this time it has been Nainital in Uttarakhand that received the season’s first snow.

However, the back to back Western Disturbances have succeeded in giving snow all across North India hills. From January 22 till January 29 there has been intermittent precipitation in the region but the weather has cleared now with some sunshine expected for another 48 hours.

In view of the clear weather conditions the day temperatures in the region have risen marginally while the night temperatures have slipped way below normal. For instance Leh in Jammu and Kashmir recorded -17°C as the minimum on Friday morning. The night temperature in Pahalgam too slipped and settled at -11°C, while Gulmarg saw the minimum settle at -10°C. The state capital Srinagar recorded a minimum of -3.5°C, which is a drop of 2 degrees from Thursday.

The day temperatures on the other hand have risen marginally as clear skies have allowed some sunshine in the region. Down in the plains too, the day time is comfortable with ample sunshine. Nights are a little cold as minimums are settling below normal at most of the places including the national capital Delhi.

Another Western Disturbance

But the pleasant weather condition will only prevail for a brief period as another Western Disturbance is expected to hit the region by February 1. This weather system will give good amounts of rain and snow in the hills of North India. By February 2 or February 3 it is likely to affect Punjab, Haryana and Delhi, in terms of winter rain. Till then clear weather with light winds is expected in the region.