The India Meteorological Department (IMD) on Saturday issued a heavy rain alert for 15 states, warning of thunderstorms, lightning and gusty winds as monsoon activity intensified across several parts of the country.
The weather office said heavy rainfall accompanied by thunderstorms and winds of up to 70 kmph is likely in states including Uttar Pradesh and Bihar. It warned that strong winds could uproot trees, damage electricity poles and standing crops, while lightning could pose a significant risk, particularly in eastern India.
The IMD advised people to remain indoors during thunderstorms, avoid taking shelter under trees and follow advisories issued by local authorities. It also cautioned that heavy rain could disrupt transport services and power supply in affected areas.
In Himachal Pradesh, the Meteorological Centre in Shimla issued an Orange Alert for heavy to very heavy rainfall in several districts from July 19 to 23. The warning comes as a fresh Western Disturbance is expected to interact with the southwest monsoon, triggering widespread rainfall across the state.
A Yellow Alert has been issued for Saturday for Mandi, Kangra, Kullu, Shimla and Sirmaur districts, with authorities asking residents and tourists to remain alert in areas prone to landslides and flash floods.
In Jammu and Kashmir, the IMD has forecast heavy rainfall over the next few days, with the possibility of flash floods, landslides and waterlogging in low-lying areas. It has advised people to exercise caution on Saturday night, Sunday morning and between July 20 and 22, when the weather is expected to be particularly intense.
Residents have been asked to avoid rivers, streams and waterfalls, travel cautiously on hilly roads and follow instructions issued by the local administration. Disaster management agencies have also been directed to remain on high alert.
The IMD urged people in the affected regions to keep track of official weather updates, warning that conditions could change rapidly during the ongoing monsoon spell.
-IANS
