Major weather alert! Weather to change in 10 hours; heavy rain forecast for 15 states.
New Delhi: The monsoon has returned with full force to many parts of the country. The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued an alert predicting heavy to very heavy rainfall across 15 states within the next 10 hours. Warnings have been issued for heavy rain, thunderstorms, squalls, and lightning strikes across regions spanning North India, the Northeast, and Central India. Weather conditions are expected to change rapidly in Delhi-NCR, Uttar Pradesh, Uttarakhand, Himachal Pradesh, Bihar, Jharkhand, Madhya Pradesh, Rajasthan, Haryana, Punjab, Chhattisgarh, Odisha, West Bengal, Assam, and Meghalaya.
According to the Meteorological Department, the influence of an active monsoon trough, a low-pressure area, and an upper-air cyclonic circulation could trigger intense rainfall over short periods in several areas. Consequently, there is a risk of waterlogging in low-lying areas, traffic disruptions, and lightning strikes.
Likely Heavy Rain in Delhi-NCR
Cloudy skies and moderate to heavy rainfall are expected in several areas of Delhi and its vicinity. Thunderstorms accompanied by strong winds are also predicted. The rainfall is likely to bring down temperatures and provide relief from humidity; however, issues such as waterlogging and traffic congestion may arise.
Alert for Several Districts in Uttar Pradesh
Rainfall activity is expected to intensify across both eastern and western Uttar Pradesh. Heavy rain accompanied by thunderstorms is likely in Lucknow, Kanpur, Varanasi, Prayagraj, Gorakhpur, Bareilly, Meerut, Noida, Ghaziabad, Ayodhya, Jhansi, and surrounding districts. There is also a risk of lightning strikes in some locations.
Risk of Landslides in Uttarakhand and Himachal
In the hilly states of Uttarakhand and Himachal Pradesh, continuous rainfall has raised concerns regarding landslides, rockfalls, and rising water levels in rivers and streams. Travelers planning to visit the Char Dham Yatra routes are advised to check the latest weather updates before setting out.
Heavy Rain in Bihar and Jharkhand
Heavy rainfall is expected in several districts of Bihar and Jharkhand over the next few hours. There is a likelihood of waterlogging in low-lying areas. Farmers have been advised to maintain proper drainage systems in their fields.
Monsoon Active in Central India Too
Heavy rainfall is also expected in Madhya Pradesh, Chhattisgarh, and eastern Rajasthan. Several districts may experience rain accompanied by strong winds and thunderstorms. Residents living near rivers and streams are advised to exercise extra caution.
Rain Spell to Continue in Northeastern States
Persistent heavy rainfall is forecast for parts of Assam, Meghalaya, Arunachal Pradesh, Nagaland, Manipur, Mizoram, and Tripura. There is a risk of landslides and flood-like situations in hilly regions.
Which States Are Under Alert?
The states where the Meteorological Department has predicted heavy rainfall primarily include:
Delhi
Uttar Pradesh
Uttarakhand
Himachal Pradesh
Haryana
Punjab
Rajasthan
Madhya Pradesh
Bihar
Jharkhand
Chhattisgarh
Odisha
West Bengal
Assam
Meghalaya
Rainfall may also occur in parts of other states depending on local weather conditions.
Important Advice for the Public
The Meteorological Department and disaster management agencies have advised citizens to remain alert.
Avoid entering waterlogged areas unless necessary.
Stay away from open fields, trees, and electric poles during thunderstorms.
Keep track of the latest weather updates.
Consult the local administration before traveling to hilly areas.
Maintain a controlled speed and a safe distance while driving.
Advice for Farmers
In view of the rainfall, farmers are advised to take necessary steps to protect their crops. Ensure proper drainage in fields and plan harvesting or other agricultural activities according to the weather conditions, considering the likelihood of heavy rain.
Will the Rain Bring Relief from the Heat?
Experts state that temperatures in most affected areas could drop by 2 to 4 degrees Celsius over the next 24 to 48 hours. This will bring relief from the humidity and heat, but the risk of waterlogging and traffic disruptions in urban areas due to continuous rain will persist.
