KKN Gurugram Desk | The onset of the southwest monsoon has brought significant changes to the weather across India, with several states experiencing heavy rainfall, thunderstorms, and gusty winds. The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued alerts for multiple regions, including Delhi, Mumbai, and Rajasthan, urging residents to stay cautious.

Delhi: Relief from Heat Amidst Rain and Thunderstorms

In Delhi, the IMD forecasts cloudy skies accompanied by thunderstorms and light rain over the coming days. Temperatures are expected to range between 34°C to 35°C, with minimum temperatures around 24°C to 26°C. The recent weather patterns have provided some respite from the intense heat, as maximum temperatures have dropped below normal by up to 5–7°C.

Mumbai: Record-Breaking Rainfall Leads to Red Alert

Mumbai has witnessed unprecedented rainfall, marking its wettest May in over a century. The city recorded 295mm of rainfall, surpassing the previous record of 279.4mm set in May 1918. The IMD has issued a red alert for Mumbai, warning of extremely heavy rainfall and the potential for flooding.

The heavy rains have led to significant waterlogging in various parts of the city, disrupting daily life and transportation. Authorities have advised residents to stay indoors and avoid non-essential travel. The early arrival of the monsoon, 16 days ahead of schedule, has compounded the challenges faced by the city’s infrastructure.

Rajasthan: Heatwave Persists Amidst Rainfall Warnings

Rajasthan continues to grapple with heatwave conditions, particularly in the western regions. The IMD has issued warnings for thunderstorms accompanied by lightning and gusty winds in several districts. While some areas have experienced light rain, the heatwave persists in many parts of the state.

IMD’s Color-Coded Weather Alerts Explained

The IMD uses a color-coded system to indicate the severity of weather conditions:

• Green Alert: No warning; normal conditions.

• Yellow Alert: Be aware; potential weather conditions.

• Orange Alert: Be prepared; severe weather expected.

• Red Alert: Take action; extremely severe weather conditions.

Currently, a red alert is in place for Mumbai, indicating the need for immediate action due to the severity of the weather.

Precautionary Measures for Residents

Residents in the affected areas are advised to:

• Stay Informed: Regularly check updates from the IMD and local authorities.

• Avoid Unnecessary Travel: Stay indoors unless travel is essential.

• Prepare for Emergencies: Keep emergency kits ready, including essentials like water, food, and medications.

• Secure Property: Ensure that loose items are secured to prevent damage from strong winds.

The early onset of the monsoon has brought both relief and challenges to various parts of India. While the rains have alleviated the intense heat in some regions, they have also led to disruptions and hazards in others. It is crucial for residents to stay vigilant, adhere to safety advisories, and take necessary precautions to navigate the ongoing weather conditions safely.