India Faces Extreme Weather: Snow in the North and Heat in the West

India is currently facing a unique weather scenario, with northern regions experiencing heavy snowfall and cold temperatures, while western states are seeing a rise in heat. The Indian Meteorological Department has issued alerts for various states, indicating ongoing rain and snowfall in the north and a return of heat in Rajasthan and Madhya Pradesh. This article explores the contrasting weather patterns, including temperature drops and the impact on travel and agriculture. Stay informed about the latest updates and weather advisories.

By Narendra Chaudhary Mar 17, 2026, 11:47 IST

Diverse Weather Conditions Across India

New Delhi/Dehradun/Jaipur, March 17, 2026: India is currently experiencing a weather paradox, with the northern regions grappling with cold and snowfall, while the western and central parts are witnessing a resurgence of heat. According to the Indian Meteorological Department (IMD) and Skymet, an active western disturbance is causing ongoing rain and snowfall across several northern states. Approximately 17 states, including Himachal Pradesh, Uttarakhand, Jammu and Kashmir, Bihar, Punjab, Haryana, Delhi-NCR, and Uttar Pradesh, are experiencing light to moderate rainfall, thunderstorms, hail, and strong winds. Conversely, temperatures are rising again in Rajasthan and Madhya Pradesh, marking the onset of a new heatwave.

Record Snowfall and Cold in Uttarakhand:

Gangotri and Yamunotri are experiencing continuous snowfall, blanketing the Char Dham region in white. The minimum temperature in Gangotri has plummeted to between -7°C and -23°C, while Yamunotri is seeing temperatures around -0°C to -11°C.

The temperature in Kedarnath has dropped to -11 degrees Celsius, resulting in extremely cold nights, frozen conditions, and challenging travel.

Heavy snowfall is also reported in Badrinath, Hemkund Sahib, and other high-altitude areas. Alerts for rain and snowfall have been issued for five districts in Uttarakhand (Chamoli, Uttarkashi, etc.).

Rainfall Across 17 States:

Light to moderate rain is occurring in Himachal Pradesh, Bihar, Jharkhand, parts of West Bengal, Delhi-NCR, Uttar Pradesh, Punjab, and Haryana.

Dust storms, thunderstorms, and hail have been reported in several areas, leading to a temperature drop of 2-4 degrees.

According to Skymet, the western disturbance has created a cyclonic system over Punjab and Rajasthan, extending through a trough line to Uttar Pradesh, which will continue to affect the region for the next 2-3 days.

Return of Heat in Rajasthan and Madhya Pradesh:

After recent rains and hail in Rajasthan, temperatures are rising again. In Jaipur, Jodhpur, and Bikaner, maximum temperatures could reach between 35-38°C.

Temperatures are also increasing in Madhya Pradesh (Bhopal, Indore, Gwalior), with some areas nearing 38-40°C. The IMD has indicated that while a heatwave is not expected next week, warmer conditions will be felt.

Parts of Maharashtra (Vidarbha, Marathwada) are also recording temperatures above 40°C, but an alert for rain and storms is in place until March 20.

IMD Alerts and Recommendations:

Highways in Uttarakhand and Himachal Pradesh may face closures, impacting the Char Dham pilgrimage.

In Rajasthan and Madhya Pradesh, it is advised to stay protected from the sun and stay hydrated.

In Bihar and Uttar Pradesh, while rain benefits crops, hail may cause damage.

The weather continues to play its game—cold in the north and heat waves in the west! Today, the weather in Jaipur (Rajasthan) is pleasant yet warming up, so remember to carry sunscreen and water when heading out. Check the IMD app for updates.