The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued heavy rainfall alerts across several states in India. These alerts are in effect until July 7. Regions such as Madhya Pradesh, Uttar Pradesh, Rajasthan, and parts of the coast are expected to experience intense monsoon activity. Meanwhile, the Delhi-NCR area will see lighter showers and cooler temperatures.
According to the IMD, the monsoon season began early this year. The Southwest Monsoon set in over Kerala on May 24, which is the earliest start in 17 years. By June 29, it had covered the entire country, nine days ahead of the normal date. This early arrival has led to expectations of above-normal rainfall across most of India for July.
Dr. Mrutyunjay Mohapatra, the Director General of IMD, stated that the country is likely to receive 180 millimetres of rain in June, exceeding the normal of 165.3 millimetres. However, some regions, particularly in East and Northeast India, have received below-normal rainfall.
Looking ahead, the IMD forecasts that July will see a monthly average rainfall that is likely to exceed the Long Period Average (LPA) of 106 per cent. Most parts of India are expected to have normal to above-normal rainfall. However, areas in Northeast India, East India, and parts of the southern peninsular region may experience below-normal rainfall.
Heavy to very heavy rainfall is expected in several states over the next few days. For example, Himachal Pradesh, Uttarakhand, Punjab, and Haryana are on alert for intense rain. Additionally, heavy rain is predicted for Madhya Pradesh, Vidarbha, Chhattisgarh, Bihar, West Bengal, Sikkim, and Jharkhand.
The IMD has warned residents and local authorities in central India, Uttarakhand, and Haryana to stay vigilant due to the risk of flooding. The rainfall may lead to rising water levels in rivers, including the Godavari, Mahanadi, and Krishna.
As the monsoon continues, the weather department advises monitoring river catchment areas closely. Good rainfall is also expected in Uttarakhand and Haryana, which could impact cities and towns that rely on these rivers for water.
In addition to the heavy rain, thunderstorms with lightning are forecasted for parts of Bihar, Coastal Andhra Pradesh, and Jammu & Kashmir. The IMD is closely watching the weather patterns and river levels, ensuring that communities are prepared for any potential flooding.
Overall, the IMD’s predictions indicate an active monsoon season, with heavy rain expected in many parts of the country. Residents are encouraged to stay informed and take necessary precautions to ensure their safety during this period of intense weather activity.