New Delhi – The Indian Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued a stern weather advisory as multiple cyclonic systems become active across India, bringing the threat of heavy rainfall, thunderstorms, and strong winds to 15 states over the next several days. The alert spans from northern plains to the northeast and parts of central India, with a combination of stormy weather and heatwaves expected to disrupt daily life.
Heavy Rains and Gusty Winds in Northern India
Northern states, including Jammu & Kashmir, Himachal Pradesh, Uttarakhand, Punjab, Haryana, Delhi, Rajasthan, and Madhya Pradesh, have witnessed stormy weather over the last 24 hours. Wind speeds touched 60–70 kmph in several areas, accompanied by hail and lightning. The IMD reported crop damage and property losses in parts of these regions. In Delhi and adjoining areas, wind speeds ranged between 30–60 kmph.
Devastation in the Northeast, Thousands Displaced in Tripura
The northeast region, particularly Arunachal Pradesh, Assam, Meghalaya, Nagaland, Manipur, Mizoram, and Tripura, has been experiencing relentless rainfall. Tripura has borne the brunt of the weather system, with over 1,800 homes damaged and around 1,000 people displaced. Relief camps have been set up in the hardest-hit Mohanpur subdivision of West Tripura. The Agartala Meteorological Centre has issued an orange alert for the next four days, warning of continued downpours and strong winds.
Cyclonic Systems Fuel Unstable Weather
Cyclonic circulations currently active over Punjab, Rajasthan, and Uttar Pradesh are expected to continue triggering adverse weather events. According to the IMD’s timeline:
- May 13: Rain likely in Punjab, Haryana, Delhi, and Eastern Rajasthan.
- May 14: Strong winds expected over Jammu & Kashmir and Ladakh.
- May 16–17: Moderate rainfall forecasted in Himachal Pradesh.
Heatwave Grips Eastern and Central States
While parts of the country brace for storms, eastern and central India are reeling under a heatwave. Eastern Uttar Pradesh, Bihar, Jharkhand, Odisha, and West Bengal are recording temperatures as high as 44–45°C. The IMD has issued heat and humidity alerts, particularly for:
- May 14–18: Severe heatwave in Uttar Pradesh and Bihar.
- May 13–15: Extreme temperatures expected in Jharkhand.
- May 15: Warm night alert issued for the Ganges plains.
Lightning Strikes Claim Lives in Maharashtra
In Maharashtra’s Beed and Latur districts, lightning strikes claimed two lives, with livestock casualties also reported. Unseasonal rains in Nashik have severely damaged onion, mango, and vegetable crops.
Monsoon Progresses Swiftly in the South
The southwest monsoon is advancing on schedule, with intensified activity reported over the Nicobar Islands and the Andaman Sea. The region is likely to witness continued heavy rain and gusty winds over the next 24 hours.
State-wise Highlights for the Coming Days
- Chhattisgarh (May 12–13): Heavy rain with winds up to 60 kmph
- Madhya Maharashtra and Marathwada (May 14–16): Strong winds predicted
- Sikkim, Jharkhand, Odisha (May 13–16): Thunderstorms and heavy rain
With cyclonic systems gaining strength and both extremes of weather—torrential rains and blistering heat—affecting different parts of India, the IMD advises citizens to stay alert and follow local advisories.
For updates, follow the IMD and respective state disaster management authorities.
