Unseasonal ‘Mawatha’ Likely in MP Around Holi: Western Disturbance May Trigger Rain and Storms
Just days before Holi celebrations, the possibility of unseasonal Mawatha in MP has raised concerns among farmers and residents alike. According to the India Meteorological Department (IMD), a fresh Western Disturbance will become active over the Himalayan region from March 2, which could influence weather patterns across Madhya Pradesh.
The IMD Meteorological Centre in Bhopal has indicated that cloud formation due to two cyclonic circulation systems and a trough is already being observed. While no immediate rain alert has been issued, weather conditions are expected to shift, particularly in the Gwalior-Chambal region.
Western Disturbance to Impact Weather Around Holi
Meteorologists say the developing Western Disturbance may bring:
Cloud cover across several districts
Light to moderate rainfall in isolated areas
Thunderstorms and gusty winds
Possible localized hail in vulnerable zones
The Gwalior-Chambal belt is likely to experience the maximum impact. However, officials clarified that there is no widespread heavy rain warning as of now.
Weather experts explain that Western Disturbances typically originate in the Mediterranean region and travel eastward, affecting northern and central India. Their timing around Holi makes this forecast particularly significant, as outdoor celebrations and crop harvesting activities could be disrupted.
Rising Temperatures After Storm Spell
Following multiple rain and hail episodes earlier this month, Madhya Pradesh is currently witnessing April-like heat. Daytime temperatures on Friday crossed 34°C in several cities.
Khargone recorded the highest at 34.8°C
Bhopal saw 32.4°C
Indore recorded 31.2°C
Gwalior reached 32.7°C
Ujjain and Jabalpur touched 33°C
Interestingly, Pachmarhi remained relatively cooler at 27.6°C during the day and 9.6°C at night.
Night temperatures have also climbed above 18°C in some regions, including Sagar and Narmadapuram. This rapid temperature rise after multiple storm spells highlights the fluctuating February weather pattern in the state.
February Witnessed Four Weather Shifts
The month of February has been unusually active for Madhya Pradesh. The state experienced:
1. Two early-month spells of hail and rain causing crop damage
2. A third spell between February 18–21
3. A fourth round of rain and hail on February 23–24
Over 20 districts faced strong winds and rainfall during the last spell. Wheat and gram crops were particularly affected, prompting government surveys of damaged fields.
Meteorologists note that such repeated shifts are uncommon and indicate stronger atmospheric instability this season.
Why This Matters Now
The possibility of unseasonal Mawatha in MP around Holi is crucial for three reasons:
Farmers: Standing rabi crops like wheat and gram remain vulnerable to hail and storm damage.
Holi Celebrations: Outdoor festivities could face disruption if rain coincides with the festival.
Temperature Trends: Sudden weather changes may impact health, particularly among children and the elderly.
Experts advise farmers to monitor IMD updates closely and take precautionary measures such as crop covering where feasible.
While there is no immediate rain alert, the activation of a Western Disturbance signals a likely shift in weather conditions in Madhya Pradesh around Holi. With February already witnessing four weather reversals, residents should stay updated through official forecasts. The coming days will determine whether this unseasonal Mawatha in MP turns into another significant spell or remains limited in intensity.
For now, clear skies are expected, but weather dynamics suggest that Holi celebrations may unfold under cloudy conditions in parts of the state.
