As Diwali approaches, the weather in India is showing signs of changing. From chilly mornings to the sharp increase in pollution in Delhi-NCR, to dry conditions in Uttar Pradesh and heavy rainfall warnings in southern regions like Tamil Nadu and Kerala, the weather is becoming a hot topic across the country. Let’s take a look at the forecast for various states across India.
Delhi-NCR Faces Pollution Along with Chilly Mornings
In Delhi-NCR, the early mornings and evenings are experiencing a mild chill. However, the day brings intense sunlight, causing the daytime temperature to rise, resulting in a mixture of both warmth and cold. The maximum temperature is expected to reach around 33°C, while the minimum temperature will hover at 18°C. These variations in temperature are making the weather unpredictable, but experts suggest that there will be no significant change until Diwali.
However, the situation is worsening when it comes to pollution levels. As the temperature drops, pollution levels have been rising steadily. In Noida, the Air Quality Index (AQI) has surpassed 201, and the AQI levels in Delhi, Greater Noida, and Ghaziabad have crossed the 200 mark. This increase in pollution is becoming a growing concern as Diwali draws near, especially due to the rise in vehicle emissions and the burning of firecrackers.
Weather in Uttar Pradesh: Dry with Cool Nights and Warm Days
Moving to Uttar Pradesh, the weather in this region remains mostly dry. The mornings and nights in cities like Lucknow and other regions are marked by a noticeable chill. However, during the afternoons, the sun makes its presence felt, causing a rise in temperatures. The overall temperature in Uttar Pradesh has remained below average. The coming days are expected to see the temperature remain steady, with no major fluctuations.
Weather in Uttarakhand: Increasing Cold in the Hills
In Uttarakhand, the weather is clear but increasingly cold. Although the days are sunny and bright, the temperatures are gradually falling, particularly in higher altitudes. There has been light rainfall in some areas of the hilly regions, and snowfall in the higher mountains, contributing to a drop in temperature. In Dehradun and nearby areas, clouds will intermittently cover the sky. The cool weather is expected to continue for the coming days, making it ideal for tourists and locals alike to enjoy the picturesque landscapes.
Rainfall Alerts in Mumbai, Goa, and Konkan Regions
Mumbai, Goa, and the Konkan coast are on alert as weather departments have issued a yellow warning for rain on October 17th. Thunderstorms with rain are expected in these areas, which should offer some respite from the oppressive heat. The temperatures in these regions will dip due to the rainfall, providing much-needed relief from the humidity.
Meanwhile, the southern states of Tamil Nadu and Kerala are also bracing for heavy rainfall. According to the meteorological department, Tamil Nadu will experience heavy rains until October 20th, while Kerala and Mahe will face similar conditions until October 21st. These rains will not only affect daily life but also raise concerns about potential flooding and disruptions in transportation.
Bihar to Experience Light Winter Weather
In Bihar, the onset of winter is evident as the temperatures continue to drop. The state has already experienced what is called a ‘pink chill’, signifying the early onset of winter. While there is no immediate threat of extreme cold, experts predict that temperatures will continue to fall over the next few days. There are no drastic changes in the forecast for the next three to four days, but the cold wave is expected to intensify by November, with bone-chilling winter conditions becoming the norm.
Other Regions: What to Expect
As we look further into other parts of the country, it’s clear that the weather will remain highly variable across India in the lead-up to Diwali. The shift from warm and humid conditions to colder, dry weather is becoming more apparent. This trend is expected to continue for several days as we move closer to the festival of lights.
In the northern and central parts of India, such as Rajasthan and Madhya Pradesh, the weather will stay dry with clear skies. The temperature fluctuations will be noticeable, but no major weather events are expected. These regions are likely to see cooler nights and warm days, making it a typical autumn transition.
The eastern and northeastern parts of the country, including West Bengal, Assam, and Arunachal Pradesh, will continue to experience intermittent rains, with the weather department keeping a close watch on conditions. These regions are no strangers to sudden weather changes, and rain or fog is likely to continue for the coming week.
Impact of Changing Weather on Diwali Celebrations
With the changing weather, the festival of Diwali will likely see some challenges in various regions. In Delhi-NCR, the pollution levels have raised concerns over the effects on health, especially for those with respiratory issues. The weather will continue to play a role in how Diwali is celebrated across India, particularly as the effects of pollution could dampen the festivities.
The colder temperatures across Uttar Pradesh and Uttarakhand may lead people to take extra precautions during their outdoor celebrations, and the rains in Maharashtra and Kerala may alter outdoor plans, forcing people to celebrate indoors.
In southern India, the heavy rains expected in Tamil Nadu and Kerala could disrupt travel plans for those wishing to visit family or participate in public celebrations. The rains, combined with the strong winds, could pose risks to the safety of individuals traveling in these areas.
As India heads into the festive season of Diwali, the weather is playing a significant role in shaping the celebrations. While some regions will experience pleasant weather with cool nights and sunny days, others will face challenges due to heavy rain, rising pollution, and dropping temperatures. It is crucial to stay informed about local weather updates to ensure safety and comfort during the festive season.
With the arrival of winter in many northern and central regions, the focus will be on maintaining health in the face of increasing pollution and changing temperatures. For those planning to celebrate Diwali outdoors, the unpredictable weather could lead to adjustments in plans, particularly in regions like Delhi-NCR, Maharashtra, Tamil Nadu, and Kerala.
As we approach Diwali, it is important to stay updated on weather forecasts to ensure a safe and enjoyable festival for all.
