Dehradun: The weather in Uttarakhand is about to experience significant changes as an active Western Disturbance is expected to affect the region from February 26 to March 1.
According to the current meteorological analysis and Numerical Weather Prediction models, this disturbance will bring rain, snowfall, and thunderstorms to various parts of the state, with peak activity on February 27 and 28.
Precipitation forecast
As per the weather forecast made by Indian meteorological department (IMD) Dehradun, tomorrow on February 26, light to moderate rain, snowfall, and thunderstorms are expected at a few places in the Garhwal region and at isolated places in the Kumaon region. Meanwhile, light to moderate rain, snowfall, and thunderstorms are very likely to occur at most places in Uttarakhand on February 27 and 28. In addition, heavy snow is expected at places with an altitude of 3500 meters and above. Apart from this, light to moderate rain, snowfall, and thunderstorms are likely to occur at a few places in Uttarakhand on March 1.
Snowfall forecast in the region
On 26 February, snowfall is expected at places with heights of 3200 meters and above. While snowfall is likely at places with heights around 2800 meters and above on February 27. From February 28 to March 1, snowfall is expected at places with heights of 2500 meters and above.
Heavy snow is likely at places with heights of 3500 meters and above in Uttarkashi, Rudraprayag, and Chamoli
On February 26, thunderstorms accompanied by hail and lightning are likely to occur at isolated places in Dehradun, Tehri, and Uttarkashi districts. While thunderstorms with lightning are likely to occur at isolated places in Chamoli and Pithoragarh districts. On the other hand, heavy snow is likely at places with heights of 3500 meters and above in Uttarkashi, Rudraprayag, Chamoli, Tehri, Pithoragarh, and Bageshwar districts on 27 February. Thunderstorms with hail and lightning may occur at isolated places in Dehradun, Tehri, Pauri, Haridwar, Nainital, Almora and Champawat. Heavy rainfall may occur in Dehradun, Tehri, Uttarkashi, Rudraprayag, Chamoli, Pithoragarh and Bageshwar.
Very heavy snow likely on 28 February
As per the IMD, very heavy snow likely at isolated places above 3500 meters and heavy snowfall above 3000 meters in districts like Uttarkashi, Rudraprayag, Chamoli, Tehri, Pithoragarh, and Bageshwar on 28 February. Additionally, thunderstorms with hail and lightning are expected in Dehradun, Tehri, Pauri, Haridwar, Nainital, Almora, Champawat, and Udham Singh Nagar. Along with this, heavy rainfall is likely in Dehradun, Tehri, Uttarkashi, Rudraprayag, Chamoli, Pithoragarh, and Bageshwar. On 1 March, thunderstorms with lightning are expected at isolated places throughout Uttarakhand.
Advisory issued by IMD
In the advisory issued by IMD, roads above 2800 meters are likely to close due to heavy snowfall and electrical and pipeline disruptions expected. Along with this, there is the possibility of rock falls and landslides blocking roads. Cold day conditions may persist, making roads slippery and authorities are advised to deploy snow clearance machinery. On the other hand, people advised to stock up on food, medicine, and power backup. In the thunderstorm areas, property and vehicle damage may occur due to hail and lightning. Therefore, people are advised to avoid staying outdoors during storms and take shelter in safe places. They are also suggested to protect crops with hail nets and keep harvested produce safe and avoid tying animals outdoors during storms.
