NEW DELHI — The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued a widespread weather warning across several parts of the country. A low-pressure area over West Bengal and its adjoining regions continues to heavily influence monsoon patterns, resulting in severe weather alerts for eastern, northeastern, and central India.
While several states are bracing for intense downpours and potential flooding, parts of northwest and south India, including Delhi-NCR, are experiencing hot and highly humid conditions.
Heavy to Very Heavy Rainfall Alert: Eastern & Central India
Active monsoon systems are driving intense rainfall across eastern India. The IMD has highlighted that the low-pressure system is triggering widespread precipitation:
- Odisha: Remains on high alert with forecasts of heavy to very heavy rainfall. Extremely heavy rain has already been recorded in isolated regions, making it the focal point for maximum monsoon activity.
- Bihar & Gangetic West Bengal: Both regions are expected to receive heavy rainfall accompanied by lightning and gusty winds ranging between 40 to 50 km/h.
- Chhattisgarh & East Madhya Pradesh: Residents can expect intense spells of rain as the system shifts inland.
Severe Downpours Forecasted for Northeast & Himalayan Regions
Northeastern India and the western Himalayan states are experiencing enhanced monsoon actions:
- Northeast India: States including Assam, Meghalaya, Arunachal Pradesh, Nagaland, Manipur, Mizoram, and Tripura are projected to receive heavy to extremely heavy showers. Mountainous terrains are at a higher risk of localized landslides and waterlogging.
- Uttarakhand: A heavy rain warning is also in place for Uttarakhand, with residents in hilly tracts advised to avoid unnecessary travel due to landslide threats.
Delhi-NCR and Northwest India: Dry, Hot, and Humid
In contrast to the active monsoon downpours in the east, northwest India will remain mostly dry and muggy.
- Delhi-NCR: The national capital is experiencing hot and humid conditions, with maximum temperatures hovering between 38°C and 40°C. Only isolated to scattered light showers or thunderstorm developments are expected.
- Future Outlook: The IMD predicts that monsoon activity will gain momentum over northwest India starting July 20. This shift is expected to bring widespread relief and lower temperatures to Delhi, Punjab, Haryana, and Uttar Pradesh.
Why This Matters: Impact and Necessary Precautions
The contrasting weather split across India brings distinct challenges:
- Urban Flooding & Waterlogging: Low-lying areas in Odisha, Bihar, and West Bengal are highly prone to sudden waterlogging, which can disrupt local transport networks.
- Agricultural Management: While the rains are highly beneficial for the transplantation of Kharif crops like paddy, extremely heavy downpours risk washing away young seedlings in poorly drained fields.
- Fishermen Advisory: Due to rough sea conditions driven by strong winds, fishermen have been strongly advised not to venture along and off the coasts of West Bengal and Odisha.
Key Takeaways
- High Alert: Severe heavy to very heavy rain warning active for Odisha, Chhattisgarh, and northeastern states.
- Monsoon Disparity: Heavy rains dominate the east and northeast, while the northwest remains hot and humid.
- Delhi Relief: Scattered light rain is possible, but significant monsoon relief is delayed until July 20.
- Safety Advice: Citizens in high-alert states should remain cautious of lightning, sudden flooding, and disrupted travel routes.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Which states are under the heavy rain alert?
The IMD has issued a warning for heavy to very heavy rainfall in Odisha, Bihar, West Bengal, Chhattisgarh, Uttarakhand, and northeastern states like Assam and Meghalaya.
Why is Delhi experiencing hot and humid weather?
Northwest India is currently experiencing a temporary lull in active monsoon winds. This delay allows hot winds to mix with moisture, creating highly humid and warm conditions.
When is rain expected to increase in Delhi-NCR?
According to the IMD, monsoon currents are expected to strengthen over northwest India around July 20, bringing more widespread rainfall and cooler temperatures.
