The Indian Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued a severe weather alert, predicting heavy rainfall across several states in India from June 14 to June 19. This alert is important for residents and local authorities as it prepares them for possible disruptions and hazardous conditions. The IMD has indicated that monsoon currents will intensify, bringing heavy rains that could lead to flooding, waterlogging, and landslides, especially in vulnerable areas.
States expected to experience heavy rainfall include Kerala, Karnataka, Maharashtra, Gujarat, and Odisha. Residents in these regions are urged to secure loose items around their homes and ensure that their drainage systems are clear. It is also advisable to stock essential supplies like food, water, and medications.
Local authorities should activate emergency plans and be ready to accommodate evacuees if needed. Communication with the public regarding safety protocols is essential during this time. Heavy rainfall can disrupt daily life, affecting transportation, power supply, and access to essential services. Roads may become impassable, causing traffic delays. In rural areas, crops may be damaged, impacting farmers’ livelihoods. Urban areas may face power outages as water seeps into electrical systems. Schools and offices may temporarily close to ensure safety.
The economic impact of such disruptions can be significant. Both governmental and non-governmental organizations must act quickly to provide relief and rehabilitation. They coordinate relief operations, distribute supplies, and offer medical assistance. Disaster response teams are deployed to vulnerable areas to ensure timely help.
Monsoon season is crucial for agriculture, bringing needed rain but also posing risks of flooding. Historically, the monsoon has both nurtured and challenged India, with some years seeing devastating impacts. Learning from past events helps improve disaster management strategies, ensuring communities are better prepared.
The IMD has also warned of heatwave conditions continuing in north India. States such as Delhi, Punjab, Haryana, Chandigarh, Rajasthan, Uttar Pradesh, and Himachal Pradesh are experiencing extreme heat. Alerts have been issued for Punjab, Haryana, and Rajasthan, while an Orange Alert is in place for Delhi.
In Kerala, the IMD has issued orange alerts for 10 districts and yellow alerts for the remaining four due to expected heavy rainfall. The District Collector in Kannur has announced holidays for educational institutions on June 14 and 15 due to the rain alert. The ongoing rain is linked to a cyclonic circulation over Andhra Pradesh and nearby Odisha, contributing to widespread rain.
As of June 13, Kerala has received around 132 mm of rainfall this monsoon season, which is 47% lower than normal for this period. Reports suggest that the southwest monsoon’s progress stalled in late May but is expected to revive and intensify soon. The IMD predicts increased rainfall activity with isolated heavy falls likely over southern India from June 11.
In summary, the IMD’s weather alerts underscore the need for preparedness in the face of heavy rainfall and heatwave conditions. Residents are advised to stay informed and take necessary precautions to ensure their safety during this period.