IMD weather update: Rain, snow in hills; hot and humid weather along coast

Contrasting Weather Grips India: Hills vs Coasts

India's weather map paints a vivid picture of extremes this week, with the India Meteorological Department issuing alerts for rain and snow blanketing the northern hills while coastal belts brace for sticky heat. In the Western Himalayas, fresh western disturbances are stirring up isolated rainfall and snowfall, particularly in Himachal Pradesh and Uttarakhand around February 18-19. Temperatures in these hill stations could dip to as low as -3°C, accompanied by winds of 10-20 km/h. Meanwhile, regions like Coastal Karnataka and Konkan & Goa face hot and humid spells, with maximum temperatures running 2-4°C above normal in parts of northwest, central, and east India. This bipolar weather underscores the dynamic atmospheric systems at play, from subtropical westerly jets over the northeast to troughs influencing the plains.

The IMD's extended range forecast highlights two successive western disturbances hitting the Western Himalayan region—one starting around the 13th and another from the 16th of February. These systems are set to bring thunderstorms, lightning, and precipitation to areas like Punjab, Haryana, Chandigarh, West Uttar Pradesh, and north Rajasthan on the 17th. Arunachal Pradesh saw similar activity earlier in the week. On the flip side, minimum temperatures are poised to rise gradually by 2-3°C across most of the country in the coming week, except in east India where they might lag below normal. Dense fog lingers in isolated pockets of Meghalaya and Himachal Pradesh during mornings, adding to travel woes.

Regional Breakdown: What's in Store for Key Areas

Up north, Jammu and Kashmir remains in the grip of a harsh cold wave, with Srinagar's daytime highs struggling around -3°C and isolated snowfall expected. Punjab anticipates clear skies mostly, but with minimums at 12°C and maximums hitting 28°C, plus potential thunderstorms in northern districts. Delhi-NCR looks at a comfortable 14-30°C range under mostly clear skies, though western disturbances could spark isolated storms. In Ahmedabad, balmy conditions prevail with 19-33°C, 2-3°C above average, and light winds. Southern coasts tell a different story—Coastal Karnataka warned for hot and humid weather on the 12th and 13th, extending to Konkan & Goa later. Maharashtra may see minimums rise by 2-4°C initially.

"With western disturbances bringing rain and snow to the hills, residents and travelers should prepare for slippery roads and sudden chills, while coastal folks need to stay hydrated amid the rising heat and humidity," said an IMD meteorologist, emphasizing vigilance across diverse regions.

Fishermen along certain coasts have faced rough seas earlier, but conditions are improving. Plains in northwest and central India could see temperature hikes of 2-4°C soon, easing the chill but heightening discomfort in humid zones. UV indices vary from low in snowy areas to moderate in sunnier spots, prompting sun protection advice where needed. Overall, no major shifts in maximum temperatures are expected in the immediate term, but the gradual min temp rise signals a warmer trend ahead.

Safety Tips and Broader Implications

Authorities and the public are urged to stay alert, especially motorists navigating fog-shrouded mornings or snowy hill paths. In low-visibility zones, slow down and use fog lights; hill dwellers should brace for power outages or avalanches in vulnerable spots. Coastal communities can expect muggy days ideal for indoor activities, with hydration key to beating the heat. Farmers in rain-affected northern belts might welcome the moisture for winter crops, but excess could delay harvesting. Aviation and road trips face disruptions from fog and storms, so checking real-time updates is crucial. The IMD's vigilance pays off in mitigating impacts from these variable patterns driven by jet streams and disturbances.

This weather mosaic reflects broader seasonal transitions, with winter loosening its hold unevenly. As minimums climb nationwide, spring-like vibes could emerge soon, barring any surprise systems. Travelers planning hill getaways should pack warm layers, while beachgoers opt for light clothes and lotions. The contrast not only tests preparedness but also highlights India's climatic diversity—from frozen peaks to sweltering shores.

In summary, IMD predicts rain and snow in hills like Himachal and Uttarakhand, hot humid weather on coasts, with rising temperatures and isolated storms elsewhere—stay prepared for these shifts.