Tue Dec 24 07:40:00 UTC 2024: ## Orange Alert Issued as Heavy Rainfall and Severe Cold to Lash North India
**NEW DELHI** – A potent western disturbance is set to bring a double whammy of heavy rainfall and severely cold temperatures to several North Indian states over the next week, the Indian Meteorological Department (IMD) warned Monday. An orange alert has been issued for Himachal Pradesh, specifically the districts of Una, Hamirpur, Bilaspur, and Mandi, due to the anticipated harsh conditions.
The IMD predicts that the western disturbance, arriving on December 26th, will be intensified by an induced cyclonic circulation forming over southwest Rajasthan on December 27th. This will draw high moisture from both the Arabian Sea and Bay of Bengal, leading to significant rainfall until December 28th.
Madhya Pradesh, Punjab, Jammu and Kashmir, and Haryana are expected to be the hardest hit, experiencing both heavy rainfall and significantly colder temperatures. Isolated rain is also forecast for parts of Haryana, Uttar Pradesh, and the Delhi-NCR region. Chandigarh may experience fog and light rain, while higher altitudes in Kashmir face freezing temperatures already impacting water pipes and hydropower generation. A yellow alert is in place for persistent fog in the Bhakra Dam area and Balh Valley in Himachal Pradesh.
Delhi-NCR experienced light rain on Monday, resulting in a slight improvement in air quality, although the AQI remains in the “severe” category. Further rainfall is predicted for the capital from December 26th to 28th. The IMD advises residents to prepare for the severe weather conditions.
First Piper 