IMD Warns Western Disturbance May Bring Clouds, Light Rain, and Temperature Relief Across Northern, Central, and Himalayan Regions
New Delhi: As February reaches its middle, Delhi and several northern states have been experiencing unusually high temperatures, more like March or April. However, the India Meteorological Department (IMD) forecasts that a fresh western disturbance may bring clouds, rainfall, and slightly cooler temperatures across northern India from 16–18 February, offering relief from the current unseasonal heat.
Unseasonal Heat Grips North India
Residents of Delhi, Uttar Pradesh, and Bihar have felt a sudden rise in temperatures this month. Strong sunshine and warm afternoons created conditions rarely seen in mid-February. Normally, winter dominates this time of year, but the absence of early rains allowed temperatures to rise sharply.
In Delhi-NCR, many people reported summer-like warmth, a rare phenomenon for mid-winter.
Western Disturbance Impact
According to IMD, a fresh western disturbance will likely affect northern India around 16–18 February 2026. These systems, moving from the Mediterranean, bring moisture, clouds, rain, and snow to northern plains and the Himalayan region.
This disturbance is expected to cause cloudy skies and isolated rainfall in Delhi and nearby areas. Meteorologists are closely monitoring its path and strength, which will determine the extent of rainfall and temperature changes.
Rain Expected in Several States
IMD has issued warnings for moderate to heavy rainfall in 11 states on 15 February, mainly across northern and central India. These include:
- Uttarakhand
- Punjab
- Haryana
- Rajasthan
- Madhya Pradesh
- Jammu & Kashmir
- Ladakh
- Himachal Pradesh
- Uttar Pradesh
Isolated pockets in Arunachal Pradesh and Andaman & Nicobar Islands
In Uttar Pradesh, thick morning and evening fog may reduce visibility. Similar fog conditions may affect Punjab, Haryana, and Bihar.
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Temperature Trends Across India
- IMD forecasts indicate that maximum and minimum temperatures will remain above normal in most regions for this time of February.
- Rajasthan is experiencing daytime heat with Barmer reaching 35.6°C, while mornings are cooler.
- Madhya Pradesh reports temperatures above seasonal averages by several degrees.
- Northern plains, including Delhi-NCR, continue to see unseasonal warmth.
Regional Weather Outlook
Northern India:
- Clear and warm on 15 February, with dense fog in early mornings and late evenings.
- Cloud build-up and light rain possible later this week as the western disturbance moves in.
Himalayan Region: Himachal Pradesh, Uttarakhand, Jammu & Kashmir, and Ladakh may see scattered rainfall and snowfall around 17–18 February.
Central and Western India:
- Warm and dry conditions continue in most parts.
- Western disturbance may bring clouds and light rainfall in Rajasthan and Madhya Pradesh.
Southern India: States like Tamil Nadu, Karnataka, Telangana, Andhra Pradesh, and Kerala will largely remain dry and warm, with no major rain forecast on 15 February.
Eastern India:
- Isolated rainfall may occur in Arunachal Pradesh on 15 February.
- Western Disturbance Expected Later This Week
- From 16–18 February, IMD expects the western disturbance to influence northern India, bringing:
- Cloudy skies and isolated rainfall in the plains
- Rainfall and snowfall in Himalayan regions
- Slight drop in daytime temperatures compared to the recent heatwave
This shift will mark a temporary relief from unseasonal heat, though conditions may return to warmer weather if the system weakens after 18 February.
Fog and Low Visibility Alerts
Dense fog is forecast in several northern states, particularly in Punjab, Haryana, Uttar Pradesh, and Himachal Pradesh, during early mornings and evenings. Residents are advised to take precautions while traveling, as fog may reduce visibility.
IMD Safety Advisory
- Stay updated with local IMD advisories, as weather patterns can change rapidly.
- Fog may affect visibility and travel in northern and central India.
- Rainfall may increase later in the week with advancing western disturbances.
- Even if unseasonal heat continues in some regions, approaching systems could bring temporary cooling and precipitation.
Summary
- North India, including Delhi, Uttar Pradesh, and Bihar, is experiencing unseasonal heat.
- A fresh western disturbance may bring clouds, light rain, and slight cooling between 16–18 February.
- Himalayan regions may receive rain at lower altitudes and snow at higher altitudes.
- Dense fog is expected in northern plains during mornings and evenings.
- Residents should monitor IMD updates for changing conditions.
khushisikarwar is an award-winning journalist and content creator who thrives on telling stories that matter. As a key contributor to Newsisland, [she] focus on cultural commentary, providing readers with thought-provoking insights.
