This shift in forecast marks a decisive moment, as it is the first time in 11 years that the IMD has warned of a below normal southwest monsoon in its April forecast. The anticipated rainfall is projected to be around 87 cm, which is significantly less than what was previously expected.

The immediate effects of this forecast are concerning for various stakeholders, particularly farmers who rely heavily on the monsoon for irrigation. The last experience of reduced monsoon rainfall was in 2023, when rainfall was estimated at 96% of the long-period average. The current prediction raises alarms about potential impacts on agriculture and food security.

Experts attribute this forecast to climate signals, including the transition of La Niña and the possibility of an El Niño event. Such climatic phenomena can significantly influence weather patterns, leading to variations in rainfall distribution across the country.

Historically, the IMD’s predictions have not always aligned with actual outcomes. For instance, in 2015, the IMD warned of below normal rainfall at 93% of the long-period average, but the actual rainfall recorded was only 86%. This discrepancy highlights the uncertainties inherent in weather forecasting.

As the 2026 monsoon season approaches, the implications of this forecast will be closely monitored. Stakeholders are urged to prepare for potential challenges, particularly in the agricultural sector, where reliance on monsoon rains is critical.

Details remain unconfirmed regarding the exact impact of these climatic conditions, but the IMD’s forecast serves as a crucial indicator for planning and preparedness in the face of changing weather patterns.

The post IMD 2026 Monsoon Forecast Indicates Below Normal Rainfall appeared first on newscri.

A heavy hailstorm hit Shimla on March 16, 2026, covering large parts of the city in white. This sudden weather event caused a sharp drop in temperature and disrupted movement across the town, prompting residents to seek shelter as conditions worsened.

The India Meteorological Department (IMD) had previously issued an Orange Alert for hailstorm and thunderstorm activity in several districts, including Shimla. This warning came amid a significant rainfall deficit in Himachal Pradesh, which had reached nearly 98 percent earlier in March 2026.

Local residents expressed their concerns regarding the hailstorm’s impact. Roshan noted, “The sudden rainfall has increased difficulties for people. While rain is good, a hailstorm can cause problems as it may damage crops.” Similarly, Diksha Jamwal commented, “The sudden hailstorm has caused problems as the cold has increased. Children are on vacation, and such weather during this time creates difficulties.”

As the hailstorm blanketed the area, the IMD reported that a new western disturbance is expected to affect northwest India from the night of March 17, 2026. This development raises questions about the potential for further severe weather in the coming days.

While the hailstorm may pose risks to crops during the ongoing agricultural season, the rainfall following a prolonged dry spell could aid in recharging water resources in Shimla. Observers are closely monitoring the situation as the region grapples with the aftermath of this unexpected weather event.

Heavy rainfall and hail showers have also been reported in other regions, such as Al-Jouf in Saudi Arabia, where the National Center for Meteorology warned of potential flash flooding due to similar weather conditions. This highlights a broader pattern of severe weather affecting various parts of the world.

As authorities assess the damage and prepare for the upcoming weather changes, residents remain vigilant, aware of the potential for further disruptions. Hailstorms can cause injuries and damage, prompting advice to seek shelter immediately.

Details remain unconfirmed regarding the full extent of the damage caused by the hailstorm in Shimla, but the community is bracing for the implications of this unusual weather pattern.

The post Hailstorm Hits Shimla, Himachal Pradesh appeared first on newscri.

What can residents of Delhi expect from the weather today? The answer is a mix of light rainfall and the possibility of thunderstorms. According to the latest reports, Delhi experienced light rainfall on Monday morning, and this pattern is likely to continue throughout the day.

The maximum temperature in Delhi is expected to reach around 30°C, while the minimum temperature is forecasted to be around 17°C. This temperature range indicates a relatively mild day, but the presence of rain and potential thunderstorms could alter the overall experience for residents.

A yellow alert for thunderstorms and lightning has been issued for parts of Delhi, indicating that severe weather conditions may develop. The Indian Meteorological Department (IMD) has warned that light rain or light thunderstorms with lightning, accompanied by wind speeds of 30-40 kmph, are very likely to occur at many places over Delhi in the next few hours.

Cloudy skies are expected to persist throughout the day, contributing to the overall damp atmosphere. The IMD has also noted the possibility of very light rain or drizzle, particularly during the forenoon to afternoon hours. This weather pattern is consistent with the two spells of light rainfall that Delhi has already witnessed this March due to western disturbances.

Delhi is currently experiencing high daytime temperatures, averaging around 33°C, typical for this time of year. However, the India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued a forecast indicating a significant shift in weather patterns starting March 18, 2026. Rain accompanied by thunderstorms and gusty winds is expected to sweep across the capital, marking a notable change in the prevailing conditions.

In response to the anticipated weather disruptions, the IMD has issued a yellow alert for Delhi from March 18 to 20. This alert serves as a warning to residents about potential disturbances, urging them to exercise caution while commuting or planning outdoor activities. The yellow alert indicates that citizens should remain vigilant as the weather could impact daily routines.

The impending rainfall is expected to provide temporary relief from the high temperatures, with daytime highs predicted to drop to around 29°C on March 19. Nighttime temperatures are also expected to decrease, with lows around 19°C. Following this, on March 20, maximum temperatures are likely to fall further to 27°C, while minimums could reach as low as 17°C.

Historical data shows that the average precipitation in Delhi on March 19 was recorded at 9.4 mm, making it the wettest March since 2023. Additionally, the maximum temperature recorded on that day was 26.8°C, the lowest so far this month, indicating a significant cooling trend.

Following the rainfall, Delhi’s air quality index (AQI) improved to 137, placing it in the ‘moderate’ category. This improvement in air quality is a welcome change for residents, as the rain has helped to alleviate some of the pollution that typically plagues the city.

Fog was also reported in various parts of Delhi, attributed to a mix of rain-soaked air and the overnight cooling that followed the rainfall. The minimum temperatures dropped sharply to 13°C, creating an unusual overlap of winter-like mornings and pre-summer afternoons. This phenomenon has caught the attention of meteorologists and residents alike.

According to Mahesh Palawat, a meteorologist, the current weather changes are linked to a western disturbance system positioned over North Pakistan and adjoining Jammu and Kashmir. This system has been responsible for the heavy rainfall in the western Himalayan regions and is now influencing Delhi’s weather patterns. Palawat noted that the pre-monsoon activity has arrived earlier than usual this year, which may have implications for the upcoming summer season.

Looking ahead, the IMD predicts that another spell of rain could hit the capital early next week, suggesting that the current weather fluctuations may continue. Temperatures in Delhi are currently running below what is typical for late March, indicating a significant shift in seasonal weather patterns. As the situation develops, residents are advised to stay updated on weather forecasts and alerts.

The post Delhi Weather: Rain Forecast and Temperature Drop Expected appeared first on newscri.

In Ludhiana, the local meteorological department has issued an orange alert for Thursday and Friday, warning residents of potential thunderstorms, lightning, and gusty winds reaching speeds of 40-50 KMPH. This alert comes as the city experiences temperatures that are being recorded around normal for this time of year.

The maximum temperature in Ludhiana was recorded at 27.6 degrees Celsius, while the minimum temperature dipped to 12.0 degrees Celsius. These figures indicate a slight decrease from the normal maximum and minimum temperatures by 1.1 and 1.6 degrees Celsius, respectively.

On Wednesday, the weather forecast predicts partly cloudy skies with one or two spells of rain or thundershowers. The day temperature is expected to be around 26 degrees Celsius, while the night temperature may decrease to 13 degrees by Thursday.

Ajay Kumar, a local resident, noted, “Even as weather had turned cold after recent rains but conditions are warming up in the city.” His observations reflect the fluctuating weather patterns that have been affecting the region.

Additionally, Kumar mentioned, “Although I had packed away my winter clothes after the warm spell in the first half of March, I have now taken them out again and am wearing a sweatshirt during the day instead of the cotton shirts I had been using for about fifteen days earlier this month.” This highlights how quickly the weather can change, prompting residents to adjust their clothing choices accordingly.

The met department has been proactive in issuing weather warnings for various districts of the state, indicating a broader concern for the potential impact of these weather patterns across the region.

As the weather continues to evolve, residents are advised to stay informed about the latest updates and prepare for the possibility of severe weather conditions in the coming days.

Details remain unconfirmed regarding the exact timing and severity of the expected thunderstorms, but the community is urged to take necessary precautions.

The post Weather Ludhiana: Orange Alert Issued Amid Temperature Fluctuations appeared first on newscri.

Previously, the weather in Faridabad and the surrounding regions was characterized by warm temperatures, with expectations of a typical pre-monsoon season. Residents were enjoying relatively stable weather patterns, with maximum temperatures hovering around 32–34°C and minimums between 17–19°C.

However, a decisive shift occurred as a powerful pre-monsoon storm began sweeping across northern India. The India Meteorological Department (IMD) issued formal alerts for rain, thunderstorms, and lightning, indicating a significant change in weather conditions.

As of March 18, the IMD has warned of light to moderate rainfall, with gusty winds expected to reach speeds of 30 to 40 kilometres per hour across the entire Delhi and NCR region. Heavy rain and potential hailstorms are anticipated between 5 pm and 7 pm, prompting concerns among residents.

In response to the impending storm, residents have been advised to stay indoors and avoid open spaces during periods of lightning activity. This precautionary measure highlights the potential dangers associated with the storm, including strong winds and sudden weather changes.

The IMD has also issued a yellow alert for the NCR region, indicating that residents should remain vigilant. Strong winds with speeds of 20–30 km/h are expected during the evenings and nights, further complicating the weather situation.

Experts note that this storm is part of a broader pattern affecting northern India, with unsettled weather also impacting the western Himalayan regions, where snowfall is reported at higher altitudes.

As the storm progresses, the immediate effects are being felt by residents who are adjusting their plans and activities in light of the severe weather warnings. The shift from warm and stable conditions to a powerful storm serves as a reminder of the unpredictability of weather patterns in the region.

Overall, the current weather situation in Faridabad reflects a significant departure from the prior expectations of a calm pre-monsoon season, underscoring the importance of staying informed and prepared for sudden weather changes.

The post Weather Faridabad: Pre-Monsoon Storm Hits Northern India appeared first on newscri.

What can residents of Delhi expect as they look ahead to the weather forecast? Starting March 18, 2026, Delhi is bracing for rain, thunderstorms, and gusty winds, which will significantly alter the current temperature trends in the city.

As of now, daytime temperatures in Delhi have been hovering around a warm 33°C. However, the arrival of rain is anticipated to bring a noticeable drop in temperatures. On March 19, the daytime highs are expected to decrease to around 29°C, followed by a further decline to a maximum of 27°C on March 20. The minimum temperatures on that day are projected to reach a cooler 17°C.

Rainfall is expected to persist through March 21, with forecasts indicating that the total precipitation in the Delhi-NCR region could range between 100 and 150 millimeters during this period. This substantial amount of rain is likely to lead to a significant change in the weather pattern, transforming the warm days into a much cooler and wetter experience for residents.

In light of these weather changes, a yellow alert has been issued for Delhi from March 18 to March 20, signaling that residents should prepare for the incoming rain and cooler temperatures. Meteorologist Navdeep Dahiya remarked, “Get ready for January kind of rains on 19th and 20th March, Sweater weather alert!” This statement underscores the expected shift in conditions, reminiscent of winter weather.

The forecasted rainfall and cloud cover will contribute to a gradual drop in daytime temperatures across the city. As the rain begins, residents can expect a refreshing change from the heat that has characterized the preceding days.

As the weather evolves, it remains to be seen how the rainfall will impact daily life in Delhi, particularly in terms of traffic and outdoor activities. While the rain is welcomed by many, it also raises concerns about potential flooding and disruptions.

Details remain unconfirmed regarding the exact timing and intensity of the rain, but the upcoming days promise a significant shift in the weather landscape for Delhi. Residents are advised to stay updated with the latest forecasts and prepare accordingly for the cooler, wetter days ahead.

The post Delhi Temperature: Rain and Cooler Days Ahead appeared first on newscri.

On March 18, 2026, Gurgaon will experience a partly cloudy sky, with temperatures ranging between 15°C and 29°C. The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued alerts for light to moderate rainfall accompanied by thunderstorms and lightning across Delhi and the National Capital Region (NCR), including Gurgaon.

At 5:15 pm IST on the same day, the IMD confirmed the onset of light to moderate rainfall, predicting gusty winds of 30 to 40 km/h across the entire Delhi and NCR region. This weather pattern is attributed to a western disturbance affecting the area, as noted by a Met official who stated, “The city is likely to witness rain under the influence of a western disturbance.”

The IMD has also forecasted that Delhi will receive rainfall from Wednesday to Friday, with temperatures expected to dip due to the rain. Specifically, temperatures in Delhi are anticipated to fall to around 29-31 degrees Celsius by Thursday and further to 27-29 degrees Celsius by Friday.

In addition to the rainfall, the IMD has issued a yellow alert for March 19 and 20, forecasting multiple spells of light rain, thunderstorms, and gusty winds that could reach up to 50 km/h. Residents are advised to stay indoors, avoid open spaces, and keep away from windows during lightning activity to ensure their safety.

The weather in Delhi is expected to improve on March 21, 2026, with a return to partly cloudy skies and no significant rainfall activity. However, the IMD has indicated that the climate change will not be a one-day thing, as some rain accompanied by storms and a strong breeze is on the cards for a few days.

This shift in weather comes after a period of unusually high temperatures in Delhi, where the mercury remained above 35°C for six consecutive days between March 7 and 12. The sudden change in weather patterns has raised concerns among residents and officials alike.

As the situation develops, authorities are closely monitoring the weather conditions and will provide updates as necessary. Details remain unconfirmed regarding the extent of rainfall and its impact on daily life in Gurgaon and surrounding areas.

The post Gurgaon Weather: Rain and Thunderstorms Expected appeared first on newscri.

Delhi is likely to witness unusually warm, early summer-like conditions today, March 18, 2026, with temperatures expected to stay between 22 to 34 degrees Celsius above normal for this time of year.

Most parts of the northern and central regions will experience temperatures ranging from 21-36°C, with some areas seeing an increase of 2-7°C above normal due to a lack of cloud formation and rainfall.

In contrast, the western Himalayan region is likely to experience rain and snowfall between March 18 and 20, with some places witnessing heavy rain and hail.

A cold front has moved through the area, resulting in a cooler day characterized by cloudy skies and gusty winds. Rain chances are expected to increase again by tomorrow, with a 40% chance of precipitation on Wednesday.

Temperatures in Delhi today are forecasted to reach a maximum of 33°C and a minimum of 18°C. Nearby Chandigarh is expected to see a maximum of 27°C and a minimum of 12°C.

Other cities in the region are also experiencing similar weather patterns. For instance, Amritsar, Bathinda, and Jalandhar are all expected to have maximum temperatures around 25°C and minimums of 10°C.

Ludhiana’s maximum temperature is anticipated to be 26°C with a minimum of 12°C.

As the day progresses, residents are advised to stay updated on weather conditions, especially with the potential for rain in the coming days.

Details remain unconfirmed regarding the extent of rainfall expected in the western Himalayan region.

The post Today’s Weather: Unusually Warm Conditions Expected in Delhi appeared first on newscri.

Bengaluru has recently faced intense heat, prompting the India Meteorological Department (IMD) to issue a cooling advisory after nearly two weeks of scorching conditions. The city recorded maximum temperatures that were significantly above average, raising concerns among residents and officials alike.

In a welcome turn of events, rainfall across Karnataka, including Bengaluru, has brought temporary relief from the oppressive heat. The heavy downpour has not only cooled the temperatures but has also alleviated some of the discomfort experienced by the city’s inhabitants.

However, the heavy rainfall has not been without its challenges. In Belagavi, flooding occurred as a result of the intense downpour, highlighting the infrastructure concerns that have arisen from changing weather patterns.

Following the rainfall, the maximum temperature in Bengaluru fell by 1.3°C to 32.3°C, while at HAL Airport, it decreased by 1.2°C to 32°C. These changes signal a significant shift in the weather, providing a brief respite from the heat.

The rainfall in Bengaluru was accompanied by lightning and gusty winds, adding to the dramatic weather conditions experienced in the region. Additionally, hailstorms were reported in areas such as Sanjayanagar, Yelahanka, and Devanahalli, further emphasizing the severity of the weather events.

Officials and meteorologists are closely monitoring the situation, as the recent weather patterns raise concerns about future infrastructure resilience. The IMD continues to provide updates and advisories to ensure public safety during these unpredictable weather changes.

As the city recovers from the recent rainfall, observers are keen to see how the weather will evolve in the coming days. With changing weather patterns becoming a norm, it is crucial for residents and officials to stay informed and prepared for any further developments.

Details remain unconfirmed regarding the long-term impact of these weather changes on the local infrastructure and environment, but the immediate relief from the heat is a welcome change for the people of Bengaluru.

The post Weather Bangalore: Intense Heat Followed by Rainfall appeared first on newscri.