Satellite shows India shrouded in massive cloud cover as rain hits. See pics

The next 6-8 hours remain critical for northern states as the most intense segment of the trough lies in close proximity to the region.

In Short

• The system has brought moderate to intense spells of rainfall
• The next 6-8 hours remain critical for northern states
• Forecasters warn that rainfall activity will increase over East India

India was seen blanketed under an expansive layer of dense cloud cover on Friday, as satellite imagery highlighted the widespread impact of an active Western Disturbance sweeping across northern parts of the country.

The system, driven by a pronounced trough line, has brought moderate to intense spells of rainfall across several regions, particularly in North India.

According to weather assessments, the next 6-8 hours remain critical for northern states as the most intense segment of the trough lies in close proximity to the region.

A trough line is a narrow zone of low pressure in the atmosphere where air rises, forming clouds and often bringing rain or storms.

This has resulted in intermittent but heavy bursts of rainfall, accompanied by thunderstorms and gusty winds in parts of Punjab, Haryana, Delhi and western Uttar Pradesh.

Meteorologists indicate that the current trough activity is expected to gradually shift eastwards by late afternoon, leading to a noticeable improvement in weather conditions over North India by evening. As the system weakens in the northwest, rainfall intensity is likely to reduce significantly, bringing partial relief after a day of unsettled weather.

However, the respite may be short-lived. Forecasters warn that rainfall activity will increase over East India as the system progresses, impacting states such as Bihar, Jharkhand and West Bengal.

The shifting weather pattern shows the dynamic nature of the ongoing disturbance.

Looking ahead, additional weather systems are already on the horizon. Fresh troughs associated with upcoming Western Disturbances are expected to influence the region around March 23 and March 28, although their intensity and impact remain uncertain at this stage.

The current spell has also contributed to a temporary dip in daytime temperatures across affected areas, while improving moisture conditions.

Experts continue to monitor developments closely, especially as back-to-back systems could prolong active weather conditions across large parts of the country through the final weeks of March.

- Ends