System activated in Bay of Bengal, alert of heavy rain and storm in 7 states

New Delhi. The weather has suddenly taken a turn, due to which winter has returned soon after. The Indian Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued a warning of heavy rain, thunder, storm and lightning in many parts of the country between 20 and 24 February. Due to the active marine system in the Bay of Bengal and the impact of western disturbance, the weather is expected to be abnormal from the mountains to South India.
According to IMD, special vigilance has been advised in Uttarakhand, Himachal Pradesh, Tamil Nadu, Kerala, Bihar, Jharkhand and West Bengal. Strong winds can blow at a speed of 40–50 kilometers per hour in many areas. The temperature is expected to drop by 2–3 degrees Celsius due to rain.
High waves may occur in the south-east Bay of Bengal, Andaman Sea and around the Sri Lankan coast. Fishermen have been warned not to go into the sea. Life can be affected due to strong storm and lightning.
There is a possibility of heavy rain and winds of 40–50 kmph in Delhi-NCR. The maximum temperature can be around 26 degrees and the minimum can be 13 degrees. There may be a temporary improvement in pollution levels after the rains, although there may be mild impact on traffic and flights.
There is a possibility of rain in Dehradun, Nainital, Chamoli and Pithoragarh of Uttarakhand between 22 and 24 February and snowfall in high altitude areas. There is also a warning of snowfall in Shimla, Kullu and Manali of Himachal Pradesh. Cold may increase due to light rain and snowfall in Jammu and Kashmir.
The eastern and central Indian states of Bihar, Jharkhand, Madhya Pradesh and Rajasthan will also be affected by strong winds and light rain. There is a possibility of moderate rain with thundershowers in Tamil Nadu, Puducherry and Karaikal. IMD has advised citizens to keep an eye on weather updates and avoid unnecessary travel to the affected areas.