Unusual Weather Patterns in Uttarakhand: Lack of Snowfall and Rising Temperatures, What is IMD's Prediction?

In early November each year, snowfall typically blankets the Himalayan regions at altitudes between 2000 and 4000 meters. However, this year, even Uttarakhand's famed Tungnath temple—the world’s highest Shiva temple at around 4000 meters above sea level—has yet to see a trace of snow. Similar conditions prevail in the state’s sacred Chota Char Dham pilgrimage sites: Kedarnath, Badrinath, Gangotri, and Yamunotri, where the temperatures are unusually similar to those in the plains. This anomaly can be due to decreased rainfall following the monsoon, which has left the region drier and warmer than usual.

Drastic Decline in Post-Monsoon Rainfall

According to the India Meteorological Department (IMD), Uttarakhand has received around 90% less rainfall than the usual amount since September, leading to a rise in temperatures across the Himalayan regions. This dry spell has caused daytime temperatures to feel uncharacteristically warm for November, leaving the typically bustling mountainous areas unseasonably quiet.

Worsening Air Quality in North Indian Cities

Simultaneously, northern Indian cities are grappling with increased pollution levels, contributing to dense smog. Major cities such as Delhi, Sonipat, Ghaziabad, and Agra are experiencing severe air quality issues. The Air Quality Index (AQI) has surpassed 300 in many areas, indicating highly unsafe levels of pollution.

Impact of Western Disturbances on Temp

Vikram Singh, Director of the Meteorological Center in Dehradun, explains that western disturbances have elevated temperatures by 2-3 degrees Celsius above the normal in high Himalayan regions. As a result, daytime temperatures are warmer, and the area lacks the cold conditions typically seen in November.

Causes of Weather Shift

During the monsoon season, the region received approximately 1273 mm of rain—10% more than the average 1163 mm. However, the post-monsoon period saw a sharp decrease in rainfall, leading to higher temperatures and disrupting the usual weather patterns in the region.

Snow-Seeking Visitors Left Disappointed

Tourists who usually flock to the Himalayas in November to enjoy the first snowfall have found their expectations unmet. With snow absent in these high-altitude areas, the region's tourism industry could face a downturn this season as disappointed visitors may reconsider their plans.

Future Outlook: Cooling Temperatures and Potential Snowfall

The Meteorological Center reports that winter may arrive later than usual in the mountains this year. A mild western disturbance is expected to bring light rain and snowfall to higher elevations, potentially lowering temperatures gradually. As temperatures continue to drop in the coming weeks, the likelihood of snowfall will increase, with possible rain expected in the lower regions as well.

Uttarakhand is witnessing unusual weather patterns this season, with a lack of snowfall and rising temperatures attributed to decreased rainfall. While these conditions may impact tourism, there is hope for a colder, snowier winter as temperatures are anticipated to fall in the weeks to come.

(PRAKASH KUMAR PANDEY)