Cold waves accompanied by infrequent rain showers returned after nearly a week, bringing down the temperature drastically in different parts of the region on Friday. Change in weather conditions which looked a bit normal during the past couple of days, as reported, also led to occurrence of snowfall in high altitude locations in the upper Himalayan zones. Thus, the effect of icy wind blowing through these snowy peaks could also be felt in hitherto warm Terai zone of the Himalayan State.
As the weather experts have predicted the change in weather conditions caused by the western disturbances may continue in different parts of Uttarakhand for the time being. However, with the minimum temperature remaining below 5°C even in the Terai-Bhavar region here on Friday, people restricted their movements to protect themselves from the cold that continued to hit normal life since Thursday night amid irregular rain showers. However, the public holiday on Friday came as a big relief for the citizens including office goers and school children as they had not to follow their routine course.
Meanwhile, as reported, foggy conditions engulfing different parts of the region during early morning hours led to disruption in vehicular movements in many places both in plains and hilly areas. Passengers could be seen stranded at the bus stops, waiting for the vehicles to reach their destinations. The long distant travelers were the worst hit. However, a few people here welcomed the prevailing weather conditions. Conclusion of the winter season in the middle of the February means to face an extended summer season which continues till the rainy season, said Ratnesh Sanwal, a professional of Kaladhungi Road, Haldwani. As per the weather cycle the winter season must remain active at least till March, he added.