India is bracing for a wave of intense weather activity as the southwest monsoon gains momentum across the country. The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued a heavy to very heavy rainfall warning for 15 states, stretching from the southern coastlines to the Himalayan foothills and northeast India.
Widespread Alerts Across India
From Kerala to Bihar, and from Maharashtra to Arunachal Pradesh, the monsoon’s impact is set to be felt far and wide. According to the IMD’s latest forecast, the coming days will witness:
- Torrential rain and strong winds in Uttar Pradesh, Bihar, Jharkhand, and West Bengal
- Flash flood and landslide threats in the northeastern states including Assam, Meghalaya, Manipur, Mizoram, and Tripura
- Severe rain activity in southern states such as Kerala, Karnataka, Goa, and Tamil Nadu
- Waterlogging and travel disruptions in cities like Mumbai and its adjoining areas
Southwest Monsoon Surge
The monsoon, which is currently active over the South Peninsular region and Konkan-Goa, is expected to move deeper into Gujarat, Chhattisgarh, Odisha, and Vidarbha over the next 24 hours. By June 19, it is likely to reach West Bengal, Bihar, and eastern parts of Uttar Pradesh, according to IMD predictions.
Weather Hazards in Key Areas
- Kerala and Karnataka’s coastal zones may receive over 20 cm of rain, heightening the risk of landslides and flash floods
- Mumbai and surrounding districts could face waterlogging and local flooding from June 15–18
- Over 1.64 lakh people have already been impacted in Manipur due to flooding
- Landslides are being reported in hilly parts of Mizoram
- Delhi-NCR is under a Yellow Alert, expecting light to moderate showers till June 18
IMD’s Public Advisory
The Meteorological Department urges citizens to:
- Stay away from rivers, overflowing drains, and low-lying flood-prone areas
- Refrain from sea travel along the Kerala, Karnataka, and Goa coasts
- Avoid open spaces during thunderstorms and take precautions against lightning
- Be alert in landslide-prone regions, especially in the Western Ghats and Northeast
Expert Take
IMD Director General Dr. Mrityunjay Mohapatra highlighted the need for continued vigilance. “With the monsoon intensifying, people should monitor updates regularly and strictly follow local administration guidelines,” he stated.
