As the monsoon season gains momentum, the India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued a series of red, orange, and yellow rainfall alerts across multiple regions — from Kerala and Karnataka in the south to Uttarakhand and Rajasthan in the north-west. The alert spans July 18–24, with heavy to extremely heavy rainfall expected in vulnerable areas.
☔ Nationwide Weather Alert: What’s Happening
The IMD bulletin states that a depression over northwest Madhya Pradesh and adjoining southwest Uttar Pradesh is stirring up heavy rain across central India. Over the next few days, the country can expect widespread rainfall.
- Kerala: A red alert has been issued for Malappuram, Kozhikode, Wayanad, Kannur, and Kasaragod districts, with extremely heavy rain forecast.
- Karnataka: Coastal and south-interior regions face heavy to very heavy rain; schools in Kodagu and Udupi were closed following a red alert.
- Madhya Pradesh & Rajasthan: Central regions under orange alert, with isolated extremely heavy rainfall in parts of western MP and Rajasthan.
- Uttarakhand & Himachal Pradesh: An orange alert for heavy to very heavy rain — rising rivers and landslide risks from July 20.
- Delhi–NCR, Uttar Pradesh, Bihar, Haryana, Punjab: Yellow warnings in place; intermittent heavy showers, thunderstorms, and rising humidity expected.
- Telangana (Hyderabad): Heaviest monsoon rains since onset — more rain predicted over next 2–3 days.
- Odisha: A seven-day yellow warning for thunderstorms and heavy rain.
- Andhra Pradesh: Moderate to heavy rain anticipated in coastal districts.
- Chennai: Heavy rain and humidity expected.
🌀 Causes & Forecast Drivers
Meteorologists pinpoint the trigger to a depression over MP–UP, which is expected to bring coastal and hilly regions into the line of heavy showers. The monsoon trough over central India remains active, steering storm activity into southern and eastern states.
⚠️ Risks & Impact Areas
- Flooding & Waterlogging: Urban regions like Ajmer (Rajasthan) and Hyderabad are already waterlogged; continued rain threatens further inundation.
- Landslides and Road Closures: Himachal Pradesh has blocked 250+ roads due to landslides, while Uttarakhand warns vulnerable communities to relocate.
- Dam Management: Karnataka’s Linganamakki Dam nears full capacity, prompting preemptive water release orders.
- Power & Infrastructure Disruptions: Transformer failures and power outages are affecting several districts like Mandi, Himachal Pradesh.
✅ Safety Measures & Recommendations
- Stay alert: Don’t venture into low-lying or landslide-prone areas — heed all district advisories.
- Monitor weather updates: Follow IMD bulletins and regional notifications on flood risk and dam releases.
- Urban preparedness: Ensure household drainage systems are clear; avoid contact with flooded electrical lines.
- Travel smart: Delay non-essential travel; expect disruptions in flights and railways due to wet conditions.
- Emergency contacts: Keep SDRF helplines handy. Utility and disaster response teams remain on alert.
🌦️ What Comes Next?
- The IMD forecasts continued heavy to extremely heavy rainfall through July 24, especially in central, southern, and eastern India.
- Post July 20–21, the system will likely shift northwards, sustaining rain in Himalayan foothills, MP, and Rajasthan.
- Urban zones like Hyderabad and Chennai can expect ongoing rainfall and humidity through the week.
- Southern states such as Kerala and Karnataka remain under red and orange alerts, signaling regional waterlogging and flooding threats.
🔚 In Summary
A significant depression over MP–UP is triggering a widespread monsoon surge, prompting severe rainfall alerts across India. With dam breach risks, urban flooding, and landslide threats, authorities are on high alert. Your best defense: stay informed via IMD channels, follow safety advisories, and prioritize personal and family preparedness.
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