IMD Issues Orange Alert for Heavy Rainfall Across North India

The India Meteorological Department (IMD) on Monday issued an orange alert for heavy to very heavy rainfall across several northern states, cautioning residents to remain prepared for possible disruptions.

According to the IMD forecast, Delhi, Haryana, Punjab, Himachal Pradesh, Jammu and Kashmir, Uttarakhand, and Rajasthan are expected to witness intense rainfall today. The alert indicates the possibility of waterlogging in low-lying areas, traffic disruptions, and landslides in hilly regions.

In addition to North India, the weather department also predicted moderate to heavy rainfall over parts of the Northeastern states, Sub-Himalayan West Bengal, Sikkim, Tamil Nadu, Puducherry, Karaikal, and West Uttar Pradesh over the next two to three days.

Meanwhile, states such as Bihar, Coastal Andhra Pradesh, Interior Karnataka, Jharkhand, Kerala, Mahe, Odisha, Telangana, and West Bengal are likely to experience thunderstorms with lightning and gusty winds today. The IMD has advised citizens in these regions to avoid outdoor activities during thunderstorms and to take precautions against lightning strikes.

Orange Alert Significance

An “orange alert” is issued when the IMD expects heavy to very heavy rainfall that may cause significant impact, including flooding of roads, disruption of rail and air transport, and potential damage to crops and infrastructure. Authorities are advised to remain on standby for emergency response.

Precautions for Citizens

The IMD has urged people in the affected regions to:

• Avoid venturing into flood-prone or waterlogged areas.

• Secure outdoor belongings and avoid sheltering under trees during thunderstorms.

• Keep emergency kits, including flashlights and first-aid, ready in case of prolonged power cuts.

• Follow advisories issued by local authorities and disaster management teams.

Recent Weather Trends

This fresh spell of rain comes after a series of monsoon-related disturbances that have caused above-average rainfall in several parts of India. In hilly regions like Himachal Pradesh and Uttarakhand, frequent landslides have already disrupted road networks, and officials fear that heavy rainfall today may worsen the situation.

Authorities in Delhi and NCR have also urged residents to remain cautious as intense showers could lead to severe waterlogging and traffic jams during peak hours.