[ Kara Gambo ]
ITANAGAR, 8 Jan: A Western Disturbance (WD) brought widespread rainfall to Arunachal Pradesh on Tuesday, with the region experiencing significant precipitation throughout the day. According to meteorological reports, the disturbance, characterized by a trough in the middle and upper tropospheric westerlies, was observed at an altitude of 5.8 kilometers above mean sea level. Its axis currently runs roughly along Longitude 93°E, north of Latitude 28°N, directly affecting the northeastern region.
Dr. A. Sandeep, Scientist-D & head of the Meteorological Centre, Itanagar, Arunachal Pradesh, shared insights regarding Western Disturbances. Western Disturbances are weather systems originating in the Mediterranean region that carry moisture-laden winds, often bringing rain or snowfall to northern and northeastern India during the winter months. Their passage over the Arunachal Pradesh region often leads to varying weather patterns, depending on elevation.
While the higher altitudes of Arunachal Pradesh are likely to receive snowfall during the winter season, the plains and foothills typically register light-to-moderate rainfall. Tuesday’s rainfall highlights the impact of this weather phenomenon, which is a significant contributor to the region’s winter precipitation.
The Meteorological Centre, Itanagar, has advised residents to stay alert for thunderstorms and lightning. Lower-altitude regions may continue to see intermittent rainfall over the coming days as the system moves further east.
Western Disturbances are critical for maintaining winter precipitation in the Himalayan and northeastern regions, replenishing water sources and sustaining the ecosystem during an otherwise dry season.
