Western Disturbance to Bring Rain and Snow to Several States

A fresh western disturbance is set to activate across several states between November 11 and 14, bringing a major shift in weather. According to the meteorological department, the weather system will trigger rain across the plains and heavy snowfall in high-altitude regions. Temperatures are expected to drop by 2 to 4 degrees Celsius in the mountains, increasing the chill. In Jammu, Kashmir, Ladakh, Gilgit-Baltistan and Muzaffarabad, scattered rain is likely on November 10, 11 and 14, with widespread rainfall expected on November 12 and 13. Heavy rain may occur in isolated pockets on November 12, alongside thunderstorms, lightning, and winds reaching 40 to 50 kilometres per hour, sometimes touching 60 kilometres per hour. Himachal Pradesh will see rain and snow from November 11 to 16, with a yellow alert issued for Chamba, Kangra, Kullu, Mandi and Shimla districts for thunder and lightning on specific days. Higher peaks in Lahaul-Spiti, Chamba, Kullu and Kinnoor are expected to receive snow. In the plains, Chandigarh, Punjab and Haryana will experience light to moderate scattered rain between November 12 and 14. Uttarakhand is also likely to witness scattered showers on November 8, 9, 10, 13 and 14. While the rain can benefit certain crops, heavy downpours risk waterlogging in low-lying areas. Dainik Bhaskar reports that November has seen 93 percent less rain than normal so far, creating dry conditions that these showers may help ease.

Context

Western disturbances are storm systems originating near the Mediterranean region that bring moisture-laden winds to the Indian subcontinent during winter. These systems are the primary driver of winter precipitation in northern India, sustaining both mountain snowpacks and vital rabi crop irrigation. Local authorities advise residents and travellers to monitor official weather updates closely as sudden storms and dropping temperatures can disrupt travel and road connectivity in hilly terrain.