North India To Prepare For Fresh Snowfall And Heavy Rain From February 1

Winter in North India is far from over. Just as people were beginning to think that the harshest part of the season had passed, the India Meteorological Department has issued a fresh set of warnings. According to the latest forecasts, a significant weather change is expected to hit the northern part of the country starting from the first day of February. This shift is being driven by a new Western Disturbance that will bring everything from heavy snowfall in the mountains to soaking rains in the plains.

​For those living in or traveling to the northern states, the next few days will require extra preparation. The weather is not just going to be cold, it is going to be active. The transition begins as January ends and February takes over, marking a period of intense atmospheric activity that will affect millions.

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Understanding the Role of the Western Disturbance

​The primary reason behind this sudden shift is a phenomenon called a Western Disturbance. This is essentially a storm system that originates in the Mediterranean region and travels eastward. When these systems reach the Himalayas, they are forced upward by the high mountain peaks. This process leads to condensation and eventually results in rain or snow across North India.

​The IMD has noted that this particular disturbance is expected to be quite strong. It will start influencing the Western Himalayan region as early as the night of January 31. By February 1, its effects will be felt in full force. While these systems are common during the winter months, the timing and intensity of this specific one suggest a sharp departure from the relatively dry spells some areas have experienced recently.

​Heavy Snowfall Predicted for the Mountains

​For the residents of the high hills, the forecast is clear: expect a lot of white. The IMD has highlighted that Jammu and Kashmir, Himachal Pradesh, and Uttarakhand are likely to see widespread snowfall. In fact, some higher reaches might experience heavy falls that could potentially disrupt daily life.

​Places like Gulmarg, Pahalgam, and the higher peaks of the Pir Panjal range are expected to be covered in fresh layers of snow. Similarly, in Himachal Pradesh, popular destinations such as Manali, Lahaul and Spiti, and Kinnaur are on high alert. This is great news for the tourism industry and those who love winter sports, but it also brings challenges. Heavy snow often leads to the closure of major highways and can affect power supplies in remote villages. Authorities are already advising people in these regions to avoid unnecessary travel to high-altitude areas where avalanches or road blockages are a risk.

​Rain and Thunderstorms across the Plains

​The impact of this weather system will not be limited to the mountains. The plains of Northwest India, including Punjab, Haryana, and Rajasthan, are expected to see light to moderate rainfall. This rain is often accompanied by thunderstorms and lightning, which can make the outdoors quite unpredictable.

​In Delhi and the National Capital Region, the weather office has predicted cloudy skies with spells of rain and gusty winds. While the rain might help in washing away some of the stubborn pollutants in the air, it will also likely lead to a drop in day temperatures, making the weather feel much more damp and chilly. For farmers in these regions, this rain can be a double-edged sword. While some crops benefit from the moisture, sudden heavy downpours or hailstorms can cause damage to standing crops that are nearing maturity.

​The Impact of Dense Fog and Cold Waves

​Before the rain and snow settle in, many parts of North India will continue to battle dense fog. The IMD has indicated that visibility could drop significantly during the morning hours in states like Punjab, Haryana, and Uttar Pradesh. This makes driving extremely hazardous and often leads to delays in train and flight schedules.

​Along with the fog, "cold wave" conditions are expected to persist in isolated pockets. This means that even before the moisture arrives, the air will remain biting cold. The combination of high humidity from the approaching rain and the existing low temperatures will likely create a "bone-chilling" effect that many residents find difficult to manage. It is a reminder that the tail end of winter can often be just as harsh as the peak of December.

​Travel and Safety Advice for the Weekend

​If you have plans to travel toward the hills or even within the northern plains this weekend, it is important to stay updated. The transition on February 1 is expected to be quite rapid. Travelers should check the status of roads like the Srinagar-Jammu National Highway or the routes leading to Shimla and Manali, as these are often the first to be affected by heavy weather.

​For those staying at home, ensuring that you have enough supplies and warm clothing is essential. The gusty winds and rain can sometimes lead to localized power outages or water logging in urban areas. Keeping an eye on the official IMD bulletins will provide the most accurate and timely information as the system moves across the country.

​Looking Ahead Beyond the First Week of February

​While the peak of this weather activity is centered around February 1 and 2, the effects might linger. The moisture left behind by the rain often results in even denser fog once the skies clear up. Furthermore, the fresh snow on the mountains usually leads to a "cold blast" that travels down to the plains, keeping temperatures low for several days after the storm has passed.

​Winter 2026 has shown a pattern of being quite persistent. Even as we head into the month of February, which usually signals the slow arrival of spring, the atmosphere seems to have other plans. This upcoming spell of rain and snow is a testament to the dynamic nature of the Indian winter and the powerful influence of global weather patterns on the local climate.

​Staying Prepared for the Weather Twist

​Weather updates like these are a reminder of how much our daily routines depend on the environment. Whether you are a student heading to school, a professional commuting to work, or a tourist looking for a snowy getaway, the IMD forecast serves as a crucial guide.

​The arrival of February with a bang of snow and rain might be inconvenient for some, but it is also a vital part of the ecological cycle. The snowfall in the mountains acts as a reservoir of water for the rivers that feed the plains during the summer months. So, while we wrap ourselves in extra layers and navigate the foggy mornings, we can also appreciate the natural rhythm that these weather systems represent.

​Stay warm, stay safe, and keep a close watch on the sky as February 1 approaches. The winter story of North India still has a few more chapters to write.