Key Points
- IMD issues storm and rain alerts for 21 states; red alerts in Jammu & Kashmir, Madhya Pradesh, and Maharashtra.
- Monsoon arrives in Kerala 8 days early, triggering widespread weather changes across India.
- Delhi-NCR hit by torrential rain and flooding; flights disrupted, underpasses waterlogged.
- Orange alerts for Himachal Pradesh, Uttarakhand, Odisha, Chhattisgarh, Punjab, Konkan-Goa, Madhya Maharashtra, and South Karnataka.
- Severe heatwave and dust storm warnings in Rajasthan as Nautapa begins, lasting until June 2.
- Cloudburst in Kullu, Himachal Pradesh causes flooding and damages over 20 vehicles.
New Delhi: India is bracing for a turbulent weather week as the India Meteorological Department (IMD) issues storm and rain alerts for 21 states. The early arrival of the monsoon in Kerala—eight days ahead of schedule—has set off a chain reaction of extreme weather events, from torrential rains and flash floods to heatwaves and dust storms.
Red Alerts for Severe Weather in Three States
The IMD has placed several districts under red alert, warning of potentially life-threatening conditions:
- Jammu & Kashmir: Districts of Jammu, Reasi, Samba, and Kathua face threats of strong winds (over 60 km/h), heavy rain, and lightning.
- Madhya Pradesh: Ujjain and Agar Malwa are on high alert for intense storms and rainfall.
- Maharashtra: Ratnagiri district is expected to see severe weather, including powerful winds and downpours.
Orange Alerts: Widespread Storms and Rain
States under orange alert include Himachal Pradesh, Uttarakhand, Odisha, Chhattisgarh, Punjab, Konkan-Goa, Madhya Maharashtra, and South Karnataka. These regions are likely to experience:
- Strong winds (40–60 km/h)
- Lightning strikes
- Heavy rainfall that could disrupt daily life and travel
Delhi-NCR: Torrential Rains Cause Chaos
Late Saturday night, Delhi-NCR was lashed by torrential rain, leading to:
- Flooded underpasses and waterlogged roads
- Significant traffic disruptions
- Flight delays and cancellations at major airports
The IMD has warned that more stormy weather is expected in the capital on Sunday, urging residents to stay alert and avoid unnecessary travel.
Himachal Pradesh: Cloudburst Triggers Floods
In Kullu, Himachal Pradesh, a sudden cloudburst on Saturday caused flash floods, damaging more than 20 vehicles and raising the water level of the Sutlej river. The IMD predicts winds of 40–50 km/h in 12 districts of the state on May 27 and 28, with the risk of further rain-induced incidents.
Rajasthan: Heatwave and Dust Storms as Nautapa Begins
While much of India faces rain and storms, Rajasthan is grappling with a severe heatwave and dust storms as the traditional Nautapa period—known for its intense heat—begins. Temperatures are expected to soar, and the IMD has issued warnings for extreme conditions and reduced visibility due to dust.
With the monsoon arriving early and triggering a mix of storms, floods, and heatwaves, authorities across India are on high alert. Residents in affected areas are advised to:
- Monitor weather updates regularly
- Avoid venturing out during severe weather
- Take precautions against lightning and flash floods
- Stay hydrated and avoid heat exposure, especially in Rajasthan
The coming week promises challenging weather, making preparedness and caution essential for millions across the country.
