Significant changes can be seen in the weather in the month of February, this year, in India. According to meteorological department, rainfall is likely to be below normal in multiple parts of the country in February, while temperatures may be recorded above average. Additionally, unexpected increase in temperature is also being seen in the country due to weak La Nina effect and changing climate pattern.
As per meteorological forecast, eastern and western Uttar Pradesh, Uttarakhand, Haryana, Chandigarh, Delhi, Punjab, Himachal Pradesh, Jammu and Kashmir and Ladakh are likely to receive below normal rainfall during the month of February 2025.
This change can impact agriculture and water resources as well. Rainfall levels may remain below normal (less than 81%) over major parts of the country. However, some areas over west central India and south peninsular India may receive normal or above normal rainfall.
According to meteorologists, in February 2025, the minimum temperature will be above normal in most parts of the country. Temperatures may remain normal only in Northwest India and South Peninsular India.
Apart from this, the effect of cold will continue in the plains of Northwest India, where cold wave days may be more than normal.
Most parts of the country are expected to experience above normal heat. However, some areas of West Central India and Southern Peninsular India may experience below normal temperatures, which may keep the weather cool.
As per Meteorologists, at present there is a weak La Nina effect in the equatorial Pacific Ocean, which may continue till the month of April. Following this, a change in the ENSO (EI Nino-Southern Oscillation) pattern is expected as well.
Previously, scientists expected temperatures to be below normal due to La Nina but January 2025 proved to be the warmest January ever. As per ERA 5 data, the average January temperature was 1.75 degrees Celsius higher than the Industrial Era (1850-1900).
This is for the first time that the temperatures have reached record levels even after the effect of El Nino has ended. Climate scientists believe that January 2025 will also break the record of last year.
This changing climate can have effects on agriculture, water resources as well as human life. Less rainfall can affect crops, while rising temperatures can lead to longer and more intense summers. Meteorologists suggest that it will be important to keep an eye on climate trends in the coming months.