As the summer deepens across India, the India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued an alert warning of significant weather activity across the country in the coming week. Several regions are expected to face contrasting extremes—torrential rains in some parts, while others brace for a relentless heatwave.
The west coast, particularly Karnataka, Kerala, Goa, and the Konkan region, is likely to receive heavy to very heavy rainfall from May 18 to 24. These continuous downpours may lead to waterlogging and localised flooding, affecting daily life and movement. Northeast India is also expected to face intense weather, with heavy rainfall forecasted in Arunachal Pradesh, Assam, Meghalaya, Sikkim, and Sub-Himalayan West Bengal. Thunderstorms, lightning, and gusty winds between 30 to 50 kmph are expected, posing risks such as tree falls and minor structural damage.
In Delhi, the weather will turn cloudy and breezy, bringing light rain, thunder, and winds that may occasionally reach speeds of up to 50 kmph. While this may bring some relief from the heat, the city is urged to remain cautious of stormy weather conditions. The capital’s temperatures will range between 38 to 40°C during the day and 27 to 29°C at night.
Southern states such as Tamil Nadu, Andhra Pradesh, Karnataka, and Kerala are preparing for a week of intermittent and sometimes intense rainfall. Coastal Karnataka, in particular, may experience extremely heavy rainfall around May 20, adding to flood concerns in low-lying areas.
Meanwhile, the central and northwestern parts of India are facing the other end of the spectrum. States like Uttar Pradesh, Rajasthan, and parts of Madhya Pradesh are already under the grip of a severe heatwave, which is expected to persist until at least May 22. Daytime temperatures in these areas are soaring, causing distress to vulnerable populations, especially children, the elderly, and outdoor workers.
Further north, regions including Jammu and Kashmir, Himachal Pradesh, and Uttarakhand may experience light to moderate rainfall along with isolated hailstorms around May 19 and 20, providing some relief to the hilly terrains but also raising the possibility of localized disruptions.
The IMD’s advisory serves as a reminder of the varied and often unpredictable nature of India’s pre-monsoon season. Citizens are encouraged to take necessary precautions—whether against the heat or the rains—as weather conditions shift rapidly. The coming days demand both awareness and preparedness to ensure safety and minimize disruption in daily life.