Uttarakhand Braces for Rain, Snowfall; Cold Intensifies Today

• Uttarakhand expects rain/snowfall from December 20 due to a Western Disturbance, ending a prolonged dry spell.
• Uttarkashi, Chamoli, Rudraprayag, and Pithoragarh districts may see light rain/snow; dense fog predicted in plains.
• Lack of previous rain caused crop concerns and worsened air quality in Dehradun (AQI > 300), affecting respiratory patients.
• Fog impacts travel: Dehradun airport flights diverted/cancelled, road and rail services also affected.
• Cold conditions are set to increase across the state, with plains experiencing more severe cold than hilly regions.

Why It Matters: Uttarakhand to experience rain/snow and increased cold from today, impacting air quality and travel.