Heavy Rain Alert Issued in 16 Indian States

New Delhi : The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued a heavy rainfall alert for 16 states, indicating widespread showers across northern, central, and western parts of the country. This includes a red alert for Rajasthan, where all districts are expected to experience heavy to very heavy rainfall in the next 24 hours. The alert comes as the monsoon system strengthens and moves further inland after making its way up from the southern coast.

Rajasthan, which had seen limited pre-monsoon activity so far, is now under a full-scale rainfall warning. The IMD has cautioned residents and local administrations to remain vigilant, especially in low-lying and flood-prone areas. Local governments have already activated emergency response units in several districts, particularly in Udaipur, Kota, Jodhpur, and Jaipur, where rainfall intensity is expected to be high.

Meanwhile, Madhya Pradesh is on the brink of monsoon arrival. The IMD says that favorable conditions are developing rapidly and the southwest monsoon is likely to enter most parts of MP within the next 24 to 48 hours. Light to moderate rainfall has already been recorded in areas like Indore, Bhopal, and Jabalpur, marking the beginning of seasonal change. This will bring much-needed relief to farmers who have been waiting to start sowing operations.

Other states under alert include Gujarat, Maharashtra, Uttar Pradesh, Chhattisgarh, and parts of Bihar and Jharkhand. The weather department has also warned of possible thunderstorm activity accompanied by strong winds and lightning in some of these regions. Citizens have been advised to avoid unnecessary travel and stay indoors during severe weather conditions.

The monsoon’s current progression is being closely monitored, as it is crucial for the agricultural economy of India. Timely and well-distributed rainfall over the next few weeks will play a significant role in determining crop output for the kharif season. Authorities are also emphasizing the need for preparedness in urban areas, especially metro cities prone to waterlogging and drainage issues.

With the weather patterns rapidly evolving, the next few days are expected to bring significant changes in temperature and rainfall distribution across much of the country.