The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has forecast heavy rainfall, thunderstorms and strong winds across 15 states on Saturday, issuing weather alerts as monsoon activity intensifies in several parts of the country.
The weather department said heavy rain accompanied by thunderstorms and gusty winds reaching speeds of up to 70 kmph is expected in multiple states, including Uttar Pradesh and Bihar. It warned that strong winds could uproot trees, damage electricity poles and standing crops, while lightning is likely to pose a significant threat, particularly across eastern India.
The IMD has advised residents to stay indoors during thunderstorms, avoid sheltering beneath trees and follow instructions issued by local authorities. It also cautioned that severe weather could disrupt transport services and power supply in affected areas.
In Himachal Pradesh, the Meteorological Centre in Shimla has issued an Orange Alert for heavy to very heavy rainfall in several districts between July 19 and July 23. The warning comes as a fresh Western Disturbance is expected to become active over the region along with the southwest monsoon, triggering widespread rainfall across the state.
Meteorological Centre Director Shobhit Katiyar said a Yellow Alert has also been issued for Mandi, Kangra, Kullu, Shimla and Sirmaur districts for Saturday. Authorities have urged both residents and tourists to remain cautious, particularly in areas prone to landslides and flash floods.
The IMD has also sounded an alert for Jammu and Kashmir, forecasting heavy rain over the coming days along with the possibility of flash floods, landslides and waterlogging in low-lying areas.
The department has advised people to exercise extra caution on Saturday night, Sunday morning and during the period from July 20 to July 22, when weather conditions are expected to be particularly severe.
Residents have been asked to avoid visiting rivers, streams and waterfalls, drive carefully on hilly roads and strictly follow directions issued by the local administration.
Disaster management agencies have been instructed to remain on high alert and maintain preparedness to respond to any emergencies arising from the adverse weather.
The IMD has urged people across all affected regions to closely monitor its official forecasts and advisories, warning that weather conditions could change rapidly during the ongoing monsoon spell.
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