Weather update Feb 19: Major shift in North India as rain retreats, temperatures surge

New Delhi: A noticeable shift in weather conditions is expected across large parts of India on Thursday, February 19, as the Western Disturbance responsible for recent rain and thunderstorms over North India moves further east.

According to the India Meteorological Department (IMD), the departure of the system will pave the way for predominantly dry weather and a gradual rise in temperatures, particularly over the northwestern plains.

Residents of Delhi and the National Capital Region (NCR), who experienced intermittent showers and cloudy skies earlier this week, can look forward to a break from wet conditions.

The IMD has forecast mainly clear skies for the national capital, although shallow mist or haze may occur during the early morning hours.

Daytime temperatures are projected to climb, with maximum temperatures likely to range between 26°C and 28°C, while minimum temperatures are expected to hover between 12°C and 14°C.

Weather analysts note that the recent spell of rain briefly moderated temperatures, but the relief is expected to be short-lived.

With clear skies returning, daytime heating will intensify, keeping temperatures around 1 to 3 degrees Celsius above the seasonal average over several parts of North India. The warming trend is forecast to continue gradually toward the weekend.

Across the northwestern plains, including Punjab, Haryana, and Rajasthan, the weather is expected to stabilise further.

Rainfall and hailstorm activity linked to the Western Disturbance is likely to cease, bringing an end to unsettled conditions seen in some districts. Dry weather combined with increasing sunshine is expected to contribute to a steady rise in day temperatures.

In contrast, parts of the Western Himalayan region may continue to witness limited weather activity. The IMD has indicated the possibility of isolated light rain or snowfall over higher elevations, particularly in Uttarakhand.

However, no widespread heavy precipitation is anticipated, and overall intensity is expected to remain low. Meanwhile, cloud bands associated with the departing system are moving toward East India, though experts suggest that their impact will be weaker compared to earlier days.

Most eastern states are forecast to remain largely dry, with only localised fog or mist possible during morning hours. Over the southern seas, a low-pressure area persisting over the equatorial Indian Ocean and adjoining Bay of Bengal is influencing weather patterns.

The Andaman and Nicobar Islands are likely to experience partly cloudy to cloudy skies, with isolated light rain predicted, especially during the night. Temperatures over the islands are expected to remain relatively stable, with warm and humid conditions prevailing.

Overall, February 19 marks the beginning of a transition phase, with dry, clearer, and warmer weather re-establishing itself over much of the country after a brief spell of rain-induced cooling in the north.