IMD issues orange alert for Delhi, Himachal as heavy rain forecast
The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued an orange alert for Delhi and Himachal Pradesh, warning of thunderstorms, lightning, strong winds, and possible heavy rain, while Kerala is expected to receive intense downpours in the coming hours.
In the national capital, Delhi, residents experienced slightly eased conditions in the morning after days of severe heat. However, the IMD has forecast a partly cloudy sky that will turn generally cloudy by afternoon, with chances of rain accompanied by thunderstorms and lightning.
The weather department has also warned of strong surface winds reaching speeds of 50–70 kmph during the afternoon spell. Another round of thunderstorms, dust storms, and lightning is expected later in the evening and night.
Despite the rain forecast, temperatures in Delhi are expected to remain high, with maximum temperatures ranging between 39°C and 41°C, and minimum around 30°C. Winds are likely to shift direction through the day, starting from southwest and gradually turning easterly by night.
The India Meteorological Department said that most regions in Delhi will continue to experience near-normal temperature conditions, though short bursts of rain may provide temporary relief from heatwave conditions.
Himachal Pradesh on Orange Alert for Hailstorms
In Himachal Pradesh, the weather office has issued an orange alert for Kangra, Kullu, Mandi, Shimla, and Sirmaur districts. The region is likely to experience thunderstorms, hailstorms, and wind speeds of 40–50 kmph.
A wet spell is expected to continue in the hill state for several days, increasing risks of landslides and travel disruptions in vulnerable areas.
Widespread Rainfall Across India
Apart from the northern and southern regions, rainfall activity is also expected across Haryana, Uttar Pradesh, Uttarakhand, Bihar, coastal Andhra Pradesh, Konkan & Goa, and parts of Karnataka and the Andaman & Nicobar Islands.
In Tamil Nadu, heavy rain with thunderstorms and gusty winds of 40–50 kmph is likely across multiple districts including Coimbatore, Nilgiris, Tirunelveli, Kanyakumari, and others. The rainfall activity is expected to bring a gradual dip in temperatures over the coming days.
Authorities have advised residents in affected regions to stay cautious, avoid unnecessary travel during storm activity, and follow local weather advisories as the monsoon system continues to intensify across India.
