New Delhi: The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has forecast a sweeping change in weather patterns across the northern and central belt of the country, signaling the onset of a harsher winter.

Over the next few days, a strong Western Disturbance is expected to bring rain and snow to the Himalayan states, triggering a steep fall in temperatures across the plains and adjoining regions.

According to the IMD, this new weather system will affect Jammu & Kashmir, Himachal Pradesh, and Uttarakhand with moderate to heavy snowfall and rain, which will push cold northwesterly winds into Punjab, Haryana, Delhi, Rajasthan, Madhya Pradesh, and Uttar Pradesh.

Minimum temperatures are likely to plunge by 2–4°C across most regions, with some districts already dipping into single digits.

Rajasthan and Madhya Pradesh Feel the Early Chill

Rajasthan is among the first states to witness a strong onset of winter this season. Sikar district recorded a low of 7°C, the coldest so far, while Alwar, Jhunjhunu, and Udaipur also reported their lowest temperatures of the year.

The IMD noted that 12 districts in Rajasthan are already recording sub-10°C nights, weeks ahead of the usual winter schedule.

In Madhya Pradesh, the mercury has fallen sharply in Bhopal, Indore, Rajgarh, and Shajapur, with Rajgarh hitting 7°C. IMD officials have cautioned that the cold wave may intensify as the western disturbance passes, allowing cold, dry winds to dominate much of the central region.

Cold Extends Eastward

The cold spell has begun stretching into Bihar, Punjab, and Chhattisgarh. Patna’s night temperatures dipped to 17.8°C, while Pendra in Chhattisgarh recorded 9°C.

The IMD has issued a cold wave warning for the Surguja district and advised farmers to take measures to protect crops and livestock from frost.

Punjab, meanwhile, has seen a two-degree fall in nighttime lows. Authorities have warned of foggy mornings and slippery roads, urging commuters to exercise caution.

Southern India Sees Mixed Weather

While the northern belt shivers, southern India continues to see mild and variable conditions.

  • Hyderabad: Hazy skies; 16°C–31°C
  • Amaravati: Partly cloudy; 22°C–32°C
  • Bengaluru: Pleasant; 17°C–28°C
  • Thiruvananthapuram: Heavy rain and thunderstorms; 24°C–32°C
  • Chennai: Partly cloudy with isolated rain; 25°C–32°C

Only Thiruvananthapuram has been placed under a rainfall alert due to possible intense thunderstorms.