The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued a warning for seven days of weather disturbances across the country, including thunderstorms, rainfall, hailstorms, and heat waves. Travellers must be prepared for potential disruptions.
Northern Hills
In the northern hills, covering Himachal Pradesh, Uttarakhand, and Jammu & Kashmir, scattered rain, thunderstorms, strong winds, and occasional hailstorms are expected. Popular tourist spots may face temporary disruptions due to slippery mountain roads and interrupted sightseeing tours. Those heading to high-altitude areas should stay updated on weather warnings, especially from May 11 to 14.
Northwestern Plains
In the northwestern plains, cities like Punjab, Haryana, and Delhi will experience light to moderate rainfall with thunderstorms and winds up to 60 kmph. Travel in these regions may be affected.
Northeast India
Northeastern states such as Assam, Meghalaya, and Arunachal Pradesh will see considerable rainfall activity until at least May 16. Intense rainfall and thunderstorms may cause landslides and localized flooding on roads leading to tourist attractions. Tourists planning to visit the northeast should consider possible weather disruptions.
Eastern India
Eastern parts, including Odisha, Bihar, Jharkhand, and parts of West Bengal, are forecast to have thunderstorms with gusty winds. Sub-Himalayan areas of West Bengal and Sikkim, popular for cool summer getaways, will receive heavy rainfall.
Southern India
Southern states like Tamil Nadu, Kerala, Karnataka, and Andhra Pradesh will experience widespread thunderstorms with occasional rainfall, lightning, and gusty winds. In Kerala and Lakshadweep, sporadic heavy rains may disrupt ferry services.
Heatwave Alert
Despite the rain, heatwave conditions will persist in western India. Rajasthan, Gujarat, and western Madhya Pradesh will face extreme heat over the next few days. Barmer in Rajasthan recorded a high of 46.8°C on May 10, making it one of the hottest regions. Daytime sightseeing could be exhausting and dangerous, especially for road trips.
A low-pressure area is likely to form in the southwest Bay of Bengal, which may enhance rainfall in southern and eastern India.
Travel Advisory
Holidaymakers are advised to maintain flexibility in their travel plans and monitor weather updates. Recommendations include checking flight and train schedules, avoiding unnecessary travel during storm warnings, and packing rain gear, extra water, and medications. Tourists in mountainous areas should avoid landslide-prone zones during heavy rainfall.
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