IMD Weather Alert: Heavy Rain, Thunderstorms Likely Across 17 States as Monsoon Intensifies

Weather Department Warns of Intense Rainfall, Strong Winds, and Lightning in Several Parts of India

The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued a fresh weather advisory as the southwest monsoon continues to strengthen across large parts of the country. While rainfall activity has eased in some regions, several states are expected to experience heavy to very heavy rainfall, accompanied by thunderstorms, lightning, and strong winds over the coming days.

According to the latest forecast, changing atmospheric conditions could lead to widespread rain activity across northern, eastern, central, and northeastern India. Residents in vulnerable areas have been advised to remain alert and follow local weather advisories.

Why Is the Weather Turning Severe?

The IMD attributes the active weather conditions to multiple meteorological systems influencing the monsoon.

These include:

  • A cyclonic circulation over northeastern Bihar and adjoining areas.
  • An upper-air cyclonic circulation over northeastern Assam and nearby regions.
  • Enhanced moisture inflow supporting stronger monsoon activity across several parts of the country.

These systems are expected to sustain widespread rainfall and increase the likelihood of thunderstorms in many regions.

Heavy Rain Alert Issued for 17 States

The weather department has warned that several states could witness heavy rainfall along with thunderstorms and gusty winds.

The states under the alert include:

  • Uttar Pradesh
  • Bihar
  • Delhi
  • Haryana
  • Rajasthan
  • Uttarakhand
  • Himachal Pradesh
  • Punjab
  • Jammu and Kashmir
  • Jharkhand
  • West Bengal
  • Odisha
  • Madhya Pradesh
  • Chhattisgarh
  • Maharashtra
  • Assam

In some locations, wind speeds may reach 70–80 km/h, with isolated gusts touching 85 km/h.

Such conditions could result in:

  • Falling trees and branches
  • Damage to temporary structures
  • Traffic disruptions
  • Localized power outages
  • Reduced visibility during heavy rainfall

Delhi Weather Forecast

Delhi is expected to witness a combination of heavy rain, thunderstorms, and gusty winds.

Forecast for July 13:

  • Maximum Temperature: 38°C
  • Minimum Temperature: 31°C
  • Strong winds of 50–60 km/h are likely during thunderstorms.

Residents should be prepared for sudden showers, waterlogging in low-lying areas, and traffic congestion during peak rainfall.

Uttar Pradesh Weather Forecast

Several districts in Uttar Pradesh are likely to experience heavy rainfall and thunderstorms.

Areas under the alert include:

  • Maharajganj
  • Meerut
  • Gautam Buddh Nagar
  • Kushinagar
  • Ghaziabad
  • Aligarh
  • Muzaffarnagar
  • Mathura
  • Agra
  • Etah
  • Mainpuri
  • Deoria
  • Hathras
  • Kanpur
  • Gorakhpur
  • Varanasi
  • Prayagraj

Lucknow Forecast

  • Maximum Temperature: 38°C
  • Minimum Temperature: 29°C

Rainfall intensity may vary across districts, with isolated locations likely to receive heavy showers.

Uttarakhand Weather Forecast

The IMD has warned of heavy rainfall in several parts of Uttarakhand from July 13 to July 16.

Districts likely to be affected include:

  • Haridwar
  • Rishikesh
  • Nainital
  • Pithoragarh
  • Chamoli
  • Bageshwar
  • Rudraprayag
  • Almora

Strong winds of 60–65 km/h are also expected in some areas.

Dehradun Forecast

  • Maximum Temperature: 33°C
  • Minimum Temperature: 25°C

People planning to travel to hilly regions should remain cautious, as heavy rainfall may trigger landslides, road blockages, and travel disruptions.

Additional Weather Concerns

The IMD has also highlighted several weather-related risks in different parts of the country, including:

  • Frequent lightning activity across eastern and northeastern India.
  • Possibility of crop damage due to strong winds, hail, and heavy rainfall.
  • Increased chances of power interruptions caused by thunderstorms.
  • Falling trees and damaged infrastructure in areas experiencing severe wind conditions.

Weather Forecast for Major Cities

CityMaximumMinimum
Delhi38°C31°C
Mumbai31°C29°C
Chennai37°C29°C
Kolkata29°C27°C
Lucknow38°C29°C
Patna31°C29°C
Ranchi29°C24°C
Bhopal33°C26°C
Jaipur36°C29°C
Shimla29°C19°C
Nainital28°C22°C

Safety Tips During Heavy Rain and Thunderstorms

People living in areas under the weather alert should take the following precautions:

  • Avoid unnecessary travel during periods of heavy rainfall.
  • Stay indoors whenever thunderstorms or lightning activity is reported.
  • Do not take shelter under trees or near electric poles during lightning.
  • Keep emergency supplies, mobile phones, and flashlights charged.
  • Follow official weather updates and instructions issued by local authorities.
  • Exercise extra caution while driving, as roads may become slippery and visibility may be reduced.

With active monsoon conditions expected to continue over the next few days, residents in affected states are advised to stay informed and take appropriate precautions to ensure their safety.