Why in the News
- March witnessed unusual weather patterns: early heatwaves followed by thunderstorms, hailstorms, and rain across India.
- Special Phenomena: Nor’westers (Kalbaisakhi) in eastern India: Sudden intense storms with thunder, lightning, and hail
What Happened
- Early March: Heatwaves in North and West India
- Mid to late March: Sudden shift to:
- Thunderstorms
- Hailstorms
- Intense rainfall
- Impact: Significant temperature drop
Main Reasons
1. Western Disturbances (WDs)
- Origin: Mediterranean region (via West Asia)
- Role: Bring rain and snowfall in non-monsoon months
- Key factor: Two intense Western Disturbances (March 13 & 18) triggered widespread weather changes
2. Cyclonic Circulation
- Persistent low-pressure circulation in lower atmosphere
- Helped intensify: Cloud formation and Rainfall activity
3. Moisture Influx
- Winds from: Bay of Bengal and Arabian Sea
- Result: High moisture availability
4. Wind Convergence
- Interaction of: Warm moist winds and cold winds
- Outcome: Severe convection leading to thunderstorms and hail
5. Seasonal Transition
- March marks winter to summer transition
- Rising temperatures plus moisture create ideal conditions for: Thunderstorms and Hailstorms.
Geographical Spread
- Affected regions:
- Western Himalayas
- Northeast India
- Central and Northwest India
- Parts of South India
| [2015] Consider the following statements: 1. The winds which blow between 30° N and 60° S latitudes throughout the year are known as westerlies. 2. The moist air masses that cause winter rains in North-Western region of India are part of westerlies. Which of the statements given above is/are correct? (a) 1 only (b) 2 only (c) Both 1 and 2 (d) Neither 1 nor 2 |
