As India experiences extended monsoon rains this year, the Indian Meteorological Department (IMD) has forecasted an extreme and harsh winter in its latest weather prediction.
The IMD, citing the onset of the La Niña phenomenon in September 2024, predicts increased rainfall and a significant drop in temperatures across the country.
According to the IMD, winter conditions will vary across different regions, with some areas facing intense cold while others may experience milder winters. Northern states like Himachal Pradesh, Uttarakhand, and Jammu & Kashmir could see temperatures plummet to around 3°C. This sharp drop, combined with more rainfall, could negatively impact agriculture, particularly winter crops.
In light of this, the IMD has urged citizens to prepare for the harsh winter by stocking up on essential supplies such as heating and warm clothing. Additionally, the Indian government is expected to introduce measures to mitigate the effects of the severe winter in affected regions.
Why will La Niña bring extreme winters?
La Niña occurs when surface temperatures in the equatorial Pacific Ocean drop, leading to climatic effects such as increased rainfall and colder winters. It is the cooler counterpart of the El Niño phenomenon, which typically brings warmer conditions.
La Niña usually begins between April and June, intensifying from October to February. The phenomenon is driven by easterly winds, which push ocean waters westward, cooling the surface and contributing to colder weather patterns.