Weather Update: A Nation Braces for the Onset of Winter, Snowfall, and Heavy Rain Warnings

: As November unfolds, the mood of the weather across India is shifting rapidly. Winter’s icy fingers are beginning to grip the nation, and a distinct chill has started to envelop Delhi-NCR. On the morning of November 17, residents of the capital woke to a brisk cold, marking the season’s first proper knock of winter.

A Significant Drop in Temperatures

The air in Delhi and its surrounding regions has grown noticeably cooler, and visibility has significantly declined in many areas, with dense fog settling in the early hours. Several regions across the country are reporting the morning haze, making visibility a challenge for commuters.

In the hilly areas, continuous snowfall has brought a sharp dip in temperatures, drawing crowds of tourists eager to bask in the snow-covered landscapes. Meanwhile, the plains are bracing for another set of challenges: heavy rain warnings issued by the Indian Meteorological Department (IMD) in southern states like Kerala, Tamil Nadu, and Karnataka.

IMD’s Alert: Widespread Rain and Cold Surge Expected

The IMD has forecast heavy rain across Tamil Nadu, Puducherry, Karaikal, and Kerala, with isolated thunder and lightning. Light to moderate rain may also grace the Andaman and Nicobar Islands throughout the week. In the north and northwest, dense fog is expected tomorrow morning in Punjab, Haryana, northwest Rajasthan, and Bihar. The IMD has also predicted a drop of 2-3°C in minimum temperatures in northwest, central, eastern, and western India over the next five days.

Snowfall in Kashmir: A Winter Wonderland

In the higher altitudes of Jammu and Kashmir, including Gulmarg and Gurez, fresh snowfall has turned the region into a winter wonderland. The scenic Gulmarg has recorded sub-zero temperatures, with the mercury dipping to -0.5°C, making it one of the coldest spots in the valley. Srinagar recorded a minimum of 4.6°C, while the iconic Pahalgam region saw temperatures slide to 0.3°C.

The snowfall has not only transformed the landscape but has also sent a chill rippling through the valley, heralding the arrival of peak winter. Rainfall in Kupwara over the past 24 hours added to the icy conditions.

Himachal Pradesh Freezes Over

In Himachal Pradesh, the cold has intensified, with temperatures plummeting to sub-zero levels in the higher reaches. Several lakes, rivers, and waterfalls have begun to freeze. Tabo saw a record low of -7.6°C, marking the coldest point this season. Other regions, including Kukumseri and Samdo, have also recorded temperatures below freezing, while the capital, Shimla, shivered with a marked increase in the chill factor.

Delhi’s Coldest Morning Yet

In the national capital, the mercury dipped to 15.3°C on Saturday morning, the lowest recorded temperature of the season so far. Fog blanketed the city, and cold winds swept through, adding to the wintry feel. Safdarjung reported reduced visibility of just 300 meters at 8:30 AM, while humidity levels ranged from 94% in the morning to 79% during the day. The IMD forecasts similar conditions on Sunday, with a maximum temperature of 29°C and a minimum hovering around 15°C.

Winter Enthusiasts Flock to Hill Stations

As the snow blankets northern hill stations, tourist destinations like Gulmarg, Manali, and Shimla are seeing a surge in visitors. The charm of snow-capped peaks and frozen lakes is pulling travelers from across the country, eager to experience the magic of winter.

Stay Prepared: IMD Advisories for the Week Ahead

• Dense Fog: Punjab, Haryana, Delhi, Rajasthan, and Bihar will see dense fog in the mornings, so commuters should exercise caution.
• Rain Alerts: Heavy rain is expected in Tamil Nadu, Kerala, and Puducherry, with lightning in isolated areas.
• Cold Wave Precautions: With temperatures dipping across northern and central India, residents are advised to layer up and stay warm, especially during early mornings and late evenings.

As India transitions into winter, these climatic shifts remind us of nature’s unpredictable