Immediately after Christmas, an alert of heavy rain and hailstorm has been issued in large parts of North and Central India. The Indian Meteorological Department said that an intense Western Disturbance will be active in North-West India from the night of 26 December.

This disturbance will give rise to an active cyclonic circulation in south-west Rajasthan and its adjoining areas. This system is likely to get sufficient moisture along with lower level easterly winds from the Bay of Bengal and the Arabian Sea. This weather system will cause widespread rain and snowfall in North-West and Central India between 26 and 28 December.

Heavy rain and hailstorm forecast

Thunderstorms and hailstorms are expected in Punjab, Haryana, West Uttar Pradesh, Rajasthan and Madhya Pradesh on 27 and 28 December. Apart from this, there may be widespread snowfall in the western Himalayan region during these two days. According to the Meteorological Department, this may be the system with the most rain and snowfall this winter.

Advice for farmers and citizens

The Meteorological Department has advised farmers to remain alert to protect their crops. At the same time, the state governments and local administration have been instructed to be prepared to deal with any unexpected situation. The Meteorological Department has also asked the citizens to keep an eye on weather-related updates and take necessary precautions.

Impact on public life

Rain and snowfall caused by the meeting of two major systems – moisture coming from the Bay of Bengal and Western Disturbance – can affect normal life. There may be disruption in power supply and traffic. In such a situation, it is important that people remain alert and follow the guidelines of the Meteorological Department.

There will be a big change in the weather on 27 and 28 December, which can make this winter season more challenging.