The country is currently experiencing notable weather variations, prompting the India Meteorological Department (IMD) to issue various alerts for storms, heavy rainfall, and snowfall in a number of states. From thunderstorms in West Bengal to snowfall in Jammu & Kashmir, these rapid climate changes are affecting daily life, transportation, and agricultural activities.

Storm and Rainfall Advisory in West Bengal

IMD has communicated a warning regarding thunderstorms and rainfall affecting several districts in South Bengal, including Kolkata. Light rain was observed early Thursday morning in Purulia, Bankura, and Birbhum districts. The department forecasts strong winds reaching speeds of 40-50 km/h, coupled with moderate rainfall in Kolkata, East and West Medinipur, Howrah, Nadia, North 24 Parganas, and South 24 Parganas.

Kolkata recorded a minimum temperature of 23.4 degrees Celsius, which is approximately four degrees above the normal range. Experts connect this increase in nighttime temperatures to the prevailing climate disturbances.

Jammu & Kashmir to Experience Snowfall and Heavy Rainfall

The Srinagar Meteorological Center anticipates snowfall and rain across Jammu and Kashmir in the next 24 hours. Cloudy conditions and moderate snowfall are expected by Thursday evening in various regions of the union territory.

Higher elevations, including the Chenab Valley and South Kashmir, are likely to receive between 7 to 12 inches of snow. Meanwhile, elevated areas in North and Central Kashmir could see 4 to 8 inches of snowfall. Authorities have advised travelers and residents to prepare for possible disruptions due to the heavy snowfall.

Rainfall and Temperature Increase in Delhi

Areas of Delhi experienced light rain on Thursday morning, resulting in a slight rise in temperatures. The IMD recorded a minimum temperature of 15 degrees Celsius, which is 3.2 degrees above the seasonal average.

Experts predict overcast skies with intermittent light drizzles throughout the day. The maximum temperature is expected to reach approximately 25 degrees Celsius. The rainfall has provided temporary relief from air pollution, mildly improving the air quality index in Delhi.

Heavy Rainfall Warning for 30 Districts in Uttar Pradesh

On February 20, the IMD forecasted rainfall in over 30 districts throughout Uttar Pradesh. Districts such as Shahjahanpur, Badaun, Lakhimpur Kheri, Sitapur, and Hardoi are likely to experience thunderstorms accompanied by rainfall.

Other affected regions include Lucknow, Kanpur, Mathura, Aligarh, Siddharthnagar, Basti, Balrampur, Shravasti, Bahraich, Gonda, Unnao, Hardoi, Kannauj, Farrukhabad, Pilibhit, Bareilly, Rampur, Amroha, and Bijnor. The forecast also suggests thunderstorms and lightning activity in these areas.

Following this weather activity, Uttar Pradesh is expected to experience drier conditions on February 21, with some regions witnessing light morning fog.

Jharkhand Braces for Rainfall and Hailstorms

Several districts in Jharkhand, including Ranchi, Khunti, Simdega, East Singhbhum, Seraikela-Kharsawan, and West Singhbhum, experienced rainfall on Thursday morning. The IMD has also issued an alert for potential hailstorms in certain regions.

As per IMD data, Ranchi recorded 11.6 mm of rainfall until 8:30 AM, while Seraikela received 23.5 mm, Simdega 10.5 mm, Lohardaga 7.5 mm, and Bokaro 2 mm of rain.

Abhishek Anand, head of the Ranchi Meteorological Center, stated that a western disturbance is causing the ongoing weather fluctuations. IMD has also warned of hailstorms in East Singhbhum, West Singhbhum, and Seraikela-Kharsawan.

Impact on Agriculture and Transportation

The sudden and drastic weather changes across India are affecting agriculture, transportation, and daily activities. Farmers have been urged to take precautions to protect standing crops from unexpected rainfall and hailstorms, which could lead to potential losses.

Authorities are monitoring the situation closely, advising residents to stay updated with weather reports. Travelers in snowfall-prone areas have been warned to avoid unnecessary journeys and take necessary safety measures.