The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has predicted heavy to very heavy rainfall across 23 states over the next five days, issuing a red alert for several regions. The warning comes as the southwest monsoon remains active, with a depression over the Bay of Bengal likely to intensify. According to IMD officials, extremely heavy rainfall is expected in parts of Maharashtra, Gujarat, and Karnataka, with isolated areas receiving up to 20 cm of rain.
States on High Alert
The IMD has placed 23 states on alert, including Maharashtra, Gujarat, Karnataka, Kerala, Tamil Nadu, Andhra Pradesh, Telangana, Odisha, West Bengal, Jharkhand, Bihar, Uttar Pradesh, Madhya Pradesh, Rajasthan, Punjab, Haryana, Delhi, Uttarakhand, Himachal Pradesh, Jammu and Kashmir, Assam, Meghalaya, and Arunachal Pradesh. A red alert has been issued for the Konkan region, including Mumbai, and the coastal districts of Gujarat. Orange alerts are in place for parts of Karnataka, Kerala, and Tamil Nadu.
Forecast Details
The IMD forecast indicates that heavy to very heavy rainfall is likely in the western coast, central India, and the northeastern states. Isolated extremely heavy falls (over 20 cm) are expected in the districts of Ratnagiri, Sindhudurg in Maharashtra, and Valsad, Navsari in Gujarat. The depression over the Bay of Bengal is moving west-northwestwards and is expected to cross the Odisha coast by July 3. This system will enhance rainfall activity over east and central India.
Impact and Precautions
The IMD has warned of potential flooding, landslides, and disruption to transportation in affected areas. Residents in low-lying regions are advised to move to safer places. The meteorological department has also cautioned fishermen not to venture into the sea along the west coast and the Bay of Bengal due to rough conditions. According to an IMD official, “The rainfall activity is likely to continue for the next five days, and we advise people to stay updated with the latest warnings.”
Previous Rainfall and Water Levels
In the past 24 hours, several states have already received heavy rainfall, leading to waterlogging in urban areas and rising river levels. The IMD data shows that the country has received 10% excess rainfall in June, with the monsoon covering the entire country ahead of schedule. The water levels in major reservoirs have increased, providing relief for agriculture but raising concerns about flood management.
