A major change in weather conditions is expected across India in the last days of March. While summer had started to set in gradually, an active western disturbance along with other weather systems is now set to alter conditions across North, Northeast, East and Central India.
According to the India Meteorological Department (IMD), multiple regions are likely to witness rainfall, thunderstorms, lightning, gusty winds and hailstorms between March 29 and April 3. During this period, hilly areas may receive snowfall, while plains are expected to experience rain and storm activity, leading to a temporary drop in temperatures and relief from rising heat.
Jammu & Kashmir, Ladakh, Gilgit-Baltistan and Muzaffarabad are likely to experience light to moderate rainfall and snowfall between March 29 and 31, accompanied by thunderstorms and gusty winds (40–50 km/h, gusting up to 60 km/h). Himachal Pradesh may see similar weather on March 29–30 and again on April 2–3, while Uttarakhand is expected to witness such conditions from March 29 to 31.
Punjab, Haryana Weather, Chandigarh, Delhi, West Uttar Pradesh and Rajasthan are also likely to receive light to moderate rainfall with thunderstorms and lightning during March 29–31. Heavy rainfall or snowfall is possible over the Kashmir Valley on March 30. Hailstorm activity is also expected in some areas during March 29–30.
As per forecasts, weather conditions may gradually improve after April 1. However, hilly regions could continue to receive light rain or snowfall on April 2 and 3. In the plains, temperatures are expected to dip slightly after the system passes, offering short-term relief from heat. Day temperatures may drop by 2–4°C, while night temperatures are likely to remain near normal.
Arunachal Pradesh is likely to receive rainfall from March 29 to April 3. Meanwhile, Assam, Meghalaya, Nagaland, Manipur, Mizoram and Tripura may witness intermittent rain, thunderstorms and gusty winds (30–50 km/h) between March 29 and April 1. Heavy rainfall is expected in Arunachal Pradesh on March 29 and again between March 31 and April 3. Parts of Assam, Meghalaya, Mizoram and Tripura may also receive intense rainfall during this period.
Sub-Himalayan West Bengal and Sikkim are expected to witness widespread rainfall with strong winds (40–60 km/h) from March 29 to April 1. Bihar, Jharkhand and Odisha may also experience rainfall along with thunderstorms between March 29 and April 2. On March 29 and 31, some areas could witness strong squally winds reaching 50–70 km/h. Heavy rainfall is likely over Sub-Himalayan West Bengal and Sikkim on March 31.
Changing Weather in MP and Chhattisgarh:
West Madhya Pradesh is likely to experience rain, thunderstorms and gusty winds from March 29 to April 1, while East Madhya Pradesh may see similar conditions between March 30 and April 1. Vidarbha is expected to receive rainfall from March 30 to April 3, and Chhattisgarh may witness light to moderate rain over the next seven days. Hailstorms are also possible in parts of West Madhya Pradesh and Vidarbha on March 30.
Rain and Winds in Maharashtra and Gujarat:
Madhya Maharashtra and Marathwada are likely to witness rainfall and gusty winds from March 29 to April 1. Gujarat may experience similar conditions on March 29–30. Coastal Maharashtra is expected to see weather changes on March 31 and April 1. Hailstorm activity is also likely in Madhya Maharashtra and Marathwada on March 30–31.
Advisory for Farmers:
Strong winds, lightning and hailstorms may damage standing crops. Farmers are advised to take precautionary measures to protect their produce and avoid leaving harvested crops in open fields. People are also advised to stay alert during adverse weather conditions, avoid open areas during lightning activity, and follow official weather updates for safety.
FAQs:
Q1. What is the latest weather update for March 2026?
A. The latest weather update predicts rain, thunderstorms, and hailstorms across multiple regions in India from March 29 to April 3.
Q2. Which states will be most affected by this weather update?
A. North India, Northeast states, Eastern India, and Central regions will be most affected.
Q3. Will temperatures drop during this weather update?
A. Yes, temperatures may fall by 2–4°C, providing temporary relief from heat.
Q4. Is there any risk to crops?
A. Yes, strong winds and hailstorms may damage standing crops, so farmers should take precautions.
Q5. What precautions should people take during this weather update?
A. Avoid open areas during lightning, stay indoors during storms, and follow official weather advisories.
