If you're planning a vacation or weekend getaway, checking the latest weather forecast is essential. The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has predicted varied weather conditions across the country as the southwest monsoon continues to advance. While several eastern, northeastern, and southern states are expected to receive heavy rainfall over the next few days, northwestern India may witness a gradual rise in temperatures accompanied by isolated thunderstorms and gusty winds.

The changing weather pattern has also triggered flood-like situations in some regions and led to incidents of lightning-related casualties. Authorities have advised residents, tourists, and farmers to remain alert and follow official weather updates before traveling or carrying out outdoor activities.

Rain and Thunderstorm Forecast for Northwestern India

According to IMD, maximum temperatures across northwestern India are likely to increase by 2–3 degrees Celsius through June 28.

Despite the rising temperatures, several states are expected to experience light rainfall accompanied by thunderstorms and strong winds.

The affected regions include:

• Haryana
• Punjab
• Chandigarh
• Delhi
• Himachal Pradesh
• Jammu & Kashmir
• Uttarakhand
• Western Rajasthan

Wind speeds of 40–50 km/h are likely in many of these areas. In parts of Eastern Rajasthan, gusts may reach 60 km/h, increasing the possibility of uprooted trees, traffic disruptions, and localized damage.

Travelers heading to hill stations or northern tourist destinations are advised to monitor weather conditions before departure.

Heavy Rain Expected in Eastern and Central India

Monsoon activity remains active across eastern and central parts of the country.

IMD has forecast thunderstorms and rainfall in:

• Bihar
• Jharkhand
• Odisha
• Eastern Madhya Pradesh
• Vidarbha
• Andhra Pradesh
• Tamil Nadu

Meanwhile, Chhattisgarh, Telangana, Kerala, Lakshadweep, and parts of West Bengal are also likely to receive light to moderate rainfall accompanied by strong winds over the coming days.

Residents in low-lying areas should remain cautious as localized waterlogging may occur during intense showers.

Himachal Pradesh Likely to Receive More Rain

Himachal Pradesh continues to experience intermittent rainfall, with several areas receiving moderate to heavy showers.

Recent weather observations recorded Mashobra as one of the wettest locations, receiving around 35 mm of rainfall.

The weather department has predicted that rain will continue across the state for the next six days. Additionally, a heavy rainfall warning has been issued for July 1 and July 2, prompting authorities to remain prepared for possible landslides and travel disruptions in hilly regions.

Tourists planning to visit Shimla or nearby destinations are advised to check local weather advisories before traveling.

Southwest Monsoon Continues to Advance

The southwest monsoon is steadily progressing toward northern India.

According to IMD, the current northern limit of the monsoon extends from the Arabian Sea through:

• Surat
• Indore
• Mandla
• Daltonganj
• Motihari

Weather conditions remain favorable for further advancement of the monsoon into:

• Gujarat
• Madhya Pradesh
• Chhattisgarh
• Jharkhand
• Bihar
• Uttar Pradesh
• Uttarakhand

over the next three to four days.

The advancing monsoon is expected to support Kharif crop sowing while providing relief from the intense summer heat in several regions.

Lightning and Flood Incidents Reported

Alongside widespread rainfall, adverse weather has also led to tragic incidents.

In Jharkhand's West Singhbhum district, two young people reportedly lost their lives after being struck by lightning while playing football.

A similar incident was reported from Boudh district in Odisha, where two teenagers died after taking shelter beneath a tree during a thunderstorm.

Meanwhile, rescue operations continue in Arunachal Pradesh's Keyi Panyor district, where flash floods have caused significant damage.

Officials reported:

• One confirmed death.
• Four people missing.
• Rescue operations being carried out by NDRF, SDRF, district police, and local volunteers.

Floodwaters have also disrupted road connectivity, temporarily isolating parts of the district from neighboring areas.

Advisory for Farmers and Residents

IMD has issued precautionary guidelines for farmers in rain-affected regions.

Farmers have been advised to:

• Ensure proper drainage in agricultural fields.
• Complete harvesting of mature crops wherever possible.
• Avoid applying fertilizers and pesticides until weather conditions improve.

Residents are also advised to:

• Stay indoors during thunderstorms.
• Avoid standing under isolated trees or near electric poles.
• Follow official weather warnings issued by local authorities.
• Exercise caution while traveling to flood-prone or hilly regions.

Key Takeaway

India is experiencing diverse weather conditions as the southwest monsoon advances across the country. IMD has forecast heavy rainfall, thunderstorms, and strong winds in several eastern, northeastern, and southern states, while northwestern India may see a slight rise in temperatures with scattered rain. Himachal Pradesh remains under a prolonged spell of rainfall, and flood and lightning incidents have been reported from parts of Arunachal Pradesh, Jharkhand, and Odisha. Travelers, residents, and farmers are advised to stay updated with official weather forecasts and take necessary precautions before planning outdoor activities.