IMD Issues Orange Alert: As the monsoon currents gain momentum, the India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued an Orange Alert for several Indian states, forecasting heavy to very heavy rainfall over the next three days. From the Himalayan hills to the Konkan coast and the Deccan plateau, a wet spell is expected to impact daily life, with thunderstorm activity, lightning, and strong surface winds making conditions unpredictable.
Delhi Weather: Cloudy Skies, Cool Temperatures, and Lightning Alerts
For the national capital, Delhi, the forecast indicates relief from scorching heat with generally cloudy skies and light to moderate rainfall from 22 to 24 July. Thunderstorms and lightning are also expected, prompting advisories for commuters and residents to remain cautious during outdoor activities.
- July 22: Maximum temperature will hover between 31–33°C, and the minimum between 24–26°C, both slightly below normal.
- July 23: Similar conditions will continue with a dip in minimum temperature to 23–25°C.
- July 24: The sky may clear slightly, but very light rain is still predicted. Daytime highs could rise to 34–36°C, possibly 1–2°C above normal.
Orange Alert Regions and Rainfall Predictions by IMD
22 July
An Orange Alert has been sounded for several districts in Jammu and Kashmir, Uttarakhand, Maharashtra, Goa, and Telangana. Heavy rainfall, thunderstorms, and possible flash floods are anticipated.
- Jammu and Kashmir: Areas like Poonch, Reasi, Kathua, Rajouri, among others, will experience intense rain.
- Uttarakhand: Districts including Uttarkashi, Dehradun, and Rudraprayag are under alert.
- Maharashtra and Goa: Raigad, Kolhapur, Ratnagiri, and both North & South Goa are in the red zone.
- Telangana: Northern districts such as Adilabad, Karimnagar, and Nirmal will witness strong rain activity.
23 July
Rain persists in most of the above regions while spreading to:
- Odisha: Central areas like Nayagarh and Dhenkanal.
- Maharashtra: Expansion to Pune and Satara.
- Telangana: Additional districts including Mulugu and Bijapur are now on alert.
24 July
The wet conditions stretch further east and south:
- Bihar: Araria joins the list with significant rainfall forecast.
- Madhya Pradesh & Chhattisgarh: Heavy showers expected in Seoni, Bastar, and adjoining areas.
- West Bengal & Odisha: Coastal districts such as South 24 Parganas, Kendujhar, and Mayurbhanj will face possible flooding.
Regional Outlook: Week Ahead Highlights
Northwest India
- Very heavy rainfall predicted over Himachal Pradesh and Uttarakhand on 22 July.
- Jammu and Kashmir and Punjab to experience heavy showers till 24 July.
- Uttar Pradesh (especially the western region) can expect wet weather from 22 to 27 July.
West India
- Konkan & Goa and the Western Ghats of Maharashtra will continue receiving heavy rainfall till the end of the week.
- Parts of Gujarat may see a rain uptick on 26 and 27 July.
South Peninsular India
- Kerala, Coastal Karnataka, and Rayalaseema are bracing for intense rainfall from 22 to 27 July.
- Strong winds (40–50 kmph) may disrupt travel and sea-based activities.
East & Central India
- Widespread heavy rainfall is forecast for East Madhya Pradesh, Chhattisgarh, and Odisha between 23 and 27 July.
- Jharkhand and Bihar will witness a heavy downpour during 24–27 July.
Northeast India
- Steady rain continues across the region for the next 7 days.
- Arunachal Pradesh, Assam, and Meghalaya will have heavy showers around 22 July and again from 24–27 July.
IMD Advisory and Safety Tips
With alerts expanding daily, IMD urges citizens to stay informed and cautious:
- Avoid travel during intense downpours, especially in hilly areas prone to landslides.
- Secure loose objects, avoid taking shelter under trees during lightning.
- Urban residents should be alert to waterlogging and flash flood risks in low-lying areas.
The Indian monsoon is in full swing, drenching vast stretches of the country. While it brings much-needed relief from summer heat and replenishes water resources, the increased frequency of orange alerts calls for heightened awareness and preparedness.
As rainfall patterns become increasingly erratic due to climate change, staying updated with official weather bulletins from IMD and following safety protocols can make a significant difference.
