(The Gist of PIB) Several studies conducted in regard to the impact of western disturbances during winter season on Indian climate

(THE GIST OF PIB) Several studies conducted in regard to the impact of western disturbances during winter season on Indian climate

Western disturbances (WD) is an extra-tropical storm which originates in Mediterranean region.
It is a non-monsoonal precipitation pattern driven by the westerlies.

Studies show that:

30% of annual precipitation over North West region (J&K, Ladakh, HP and Uttarakhand) is received during winter and it is mostly associated with WD.
It also causes rainfall over adjoining places of north India.
Precipitation associated with WD influences Himalayan climate, glaciers, snow-water storage, flora, fauna, agricultural crops and human inhabitants etc.
WD is very vital for Rabi Crop over northwest India.
Also, snowfall/snowmelt in Hilly regions contributes to river flow and drinking water for people living downstream.

Adverse weather elements associated with WDs are:

Precipitation in the form of snow, rain or hail leading to landslides, avalanches.
Dense to very dense fog events leading to interruption in aviation/rail/road transport services.
Cold Wave to Severe Cold Wave (sudden spell of low temperatures over a wide area) and Cold Day to Severe Cold Day conditions.