Northwest India records 2nd lowest rainfall in January since 1901: Weather panel
The India Meteorological Department (IMD) recently released Area Weighted Rainfall data for January 2024, showcasing significant rainfall variations across various regions in India.
In January, the entire country received 7.2 mm of rainfall, marking it as the ninth lowest since 1901. This figure is notably lower than averages noted in earlier decades, with other record low years being 2007, 2018, and 1946.
Northwest India, in particular, recorded an alarmingly low 3.1 mm of rainfall, the second lowest since 1901, pointing towards a considerable dip below standard levels.
However, showcasing a conflicting trend, the South Peninsular region witnessed 18.2 mm of rainfall. This number ranks as the 22nd highest since 1901 and notably the third-highest since 2001.
Such inconsistency in January’s rainfall marks the ongoing climatic fluctuations India faces. These variances carry considerable implications for agricultural activities, water management policies, and overall strategic planning processes.
Moving into February 2024, predictions indicate above-normal rainfall over North India (>122% of LPA). Country-wide rainfall is also expected to be above normal (>119% of LPA). Northwest, Northeast, and Central India are likely to experience normal to above-normal rainfall, while most parts of South Peninsular India might see lower rainfall.
February 2024 will also witness temperature fluctuations. Minimum monthly temperatures are projected to be above normal for most parts of the country. Maximum monthly temperatures for February 2024 are expected to be above normal for most parts of Northwest India, West Central India, and Northeast India, among others.
RAIN, SNOWFALL ALERT IN PARTS OF NORTH INDIA
The weather department has issued a special alert for northern states, including the Kashmir Valley, Himachal Pradesh, and Uttarakhand, predicting isolated heavy rains and snowfall from January 31 to February 4. Residents are warned of intense rainfall, thick snowfall in hilly areas, and chilly surface winds at 30-40 kmph.
Punjab, Chandigarh, Haryana, Delhi, Uttar Pradesh, and Rajasthan are expected to experience light to moderate scattered to fairly widespread rainfall during this period, with isolated rains continuing into February 4.
The alert also mentions isolated hailstorms over Punjab, Haryana, and Uttarakhand on January 31, extending into February 1, accompanied by strong gusts. Thunderstorms and lightning are anticipated in most places.
Similar conditions are expected in Himachal Pradesh, Uttarakhand, Punjab, Haryana, Chandigarh, Delhi, West Uttar Pradesh, and East Uttar Pradesh. In West and East Rajasthan, there may be light to moderate rain or snowfall with thunderstorms, lightning, and isolated hailstorms.