As Chaitra Navratri begins on March 19, weather conditions across large parts of North and Central India have turned unstable. IMD has forecast unstable weather conditions across several states through March 21. Uttar Pradesh, Madhya Pradesh, Rajasthan, and adjoining regions are expected to experience thunderstorms, gusty winds, and possible hailstorm activity.
A sudden change in weather was observed across the western districts of Uttar Pradesh on Wednesday evening. Areas adjoining Delhi, including Noida and Ghaziabad, recorded rainfall accompanied by strong winds. The IMD attributed this shift to an active western disturbance, which is expected to influence weather patterns until March 21. Wind speeds are likely to range between 40 and 60 kmph, leading to a noticeable drop of 5 to 7 degrees Celsius in maximum temperatures over the next two days. A specific hailstorm warning has been issued for districts including Meerut, Saharanpur, Muzaffarnagar, Agra, Firozabad, and Bijnor, raising concerns about potential crop damage.
On March 19, isolated places across Madhya Pradesh, Rajasthan, Haryana weather, Punjab, and western Uttar Pradesh are likely to witness thunderstorms with lightning and gusty winds reaching 40–50 kmph. Hailstorms may also occur in some pockets. The activity is expected to intensify on March 20, with widespread thunderstorm and hailstorm alerts across eastern Rajasthan, Madhya Pradesh, and most parts of Uttar Pradesh. Wind speeds may further increase to 50–60 kmph in Uttar Pradesh and Uttarakhand during this period.
By March 21, the impact of thunderstorms and gusty winds is likely to continue in parts of eastern Uttar Pradesh, while weather conditions in other regions are expected to gradually improve.
Advisory for Farmers:
Farmers have been advised to delay harvesting of mature crops and take necessary precautions to protect standing crops from strong winds and hailstorms. Preventive measures are crucial to minimize potential losses during this period of adverse weather.
Overall, while the sudden weather shift during Navratri may bring temporary relief from rising temperatures, it also calls for heightened caution, especially for the farming community.
FAQs
Q: What is the forecast for Chaitra Navratri Weather 2026?
A: Thunderstorms, gusty winds, and hailstorm activity are expected in North and Central India from March 19–21.
Q: Which states are likely to be most affected?
A: Uttar Pradesh, Madhya Pradesh, Rajasthan, Haryana, Punjab, and Uttarakhand.
Q: What precautions should farmers take?
A: Delay harvesting and protect standing crops from strong winds and hailstorms.
Q: Are hailstorm warnings issued?
A: Yes, for districts including Meerut, Saharanpur, Muzaffarnagar, Agra, Firozabad, and Bijnor.
Q: Will temperatures drop during this period?
A: Yes, maximum temperatures may decrease by 5–7°C in affected regions.
