The IMD (India Meteorological Department) has issued a widespread weather alert, forecasting heavy rainfall, thunderstorms and gusty winds across at least 15 states over the next 24 hours as the southwest monsoon remains active across much of the country.
According to the IMD, states including Uttar Pradesh, Bihar, Jharkhand, West Bengal, Odisha, Madhya Pradesh, Chhattisgarh, Rajasthan, Gujarat, Maharashtra, Himachal Pradesh, Uttarakhand, Punjab, Haryana and Delhi-NCR are likely to experience varying intensities of rain, with isolated areas expected to receive heavy to very heavy showers.Wind
Wind speeds of 40–75 kmph may accompany thunderstorms in several regions, increasing the risk of waterlogging, falling trees and disruptions to road and rail traffic.
The weather department has advised residents in vulnerable areas to avoid unnecessary travel during intense rainfall, remain indoors during thunderstorms and follow local administration advisories.
Disaster response teams have also been placed on alert in several states as authorities monitor rivers and low-lying areas prone to flooding.
The active monsoon is expected to bring relief from high temperatures in many regions while supporting agricultural activities. However, officials have cautioned that prolonged heavy rain could trigger flash floods, landslides in hilly areas and traffic disruptions in urban centres.
The IMD continues to monitor the evolving weather system and has urged the public to stay updated through official forecasts as rainfall activity is expected to persist over the coming days.
