IMD Forecast: East and Northeast India Brace for “Very Heavy” Downpours, Delhi stays Humid

While Delhi begins a slow dry-out from recent floods, a significant portion of the country remains under a heavy rain alert. Intense rainfall is expected to persist over East and Northeast India, according to the Indian Meteorological Department (IMD). Sub-Himalayan West Bengal and Sikkim are specifically warned of "heavy to very heavy" downpours, indicating an active and protracted monsoon withdrawal phase.

Which Regions are Under the Heavy Rain Alert?

The country's eastern and northeastern regions are more at risk from the weather. The IMD has issued forecasts for:

• Sub-Himalayan West Bengal & Sikkim: Expected to bear the brunt with heavy to very heavy rainfall.
• Assam & Meghalaya:It is predicted to rain heavily and widely.
• Bihar: Heavy showers are also expected in certain areas of the state.

Residents in these regions are advised to be cautious of potential waterlogging, landslides in hilly areas, and disruptions to travel.

Forecast for South India

The damp weather is not exclusive to the southern peninsula. Isolated heavy rainfall and thunderstorms are likely in:

• Tamil Nadu
• Kerala
• South Interior Karnataka
• Coastal Andhra Pradesh
• Telangana

Additionally, a specific warning has been issued for strong surface winds along the coast of Andhra Pradesh, which could pose risks for fishermen and small craft.

The Slow Monsoon Withdrawal

The key driver behind this persistent rainfall is the slowed withdrawal of the monsoon. The retreating process has been sluggish, which is expected to cause above-normal rainfall activity in eastern and northeastern India throughout September. The usual post-monsoon dry weather is delayed by this phenomenon.

Situation with the Ocean Systems

Meteorologists are monitoring two key systems:

Arabian Sea: As it approaches the northeast Arabian Sea, a low-pressure system over southeast Pakistan is predicted to wane.

Bay of Bengal: Squally weather conditions are likely over the Gulf of Mannar and parts of the Bay of Bengal, contributing to the unstable weather along the eastern coast.

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What is Delhi's Weather Outlook Today?

In stark contrast to the flooding seen earlier in the month, Delhi's weather is stabilizing, albeit with new concerns.

• Sky: Partly cloudy, with a possibility of very light rain in isolated areas.
• Temperature: A warm day is expected, with highs of 34–36°C and lows of 24–26°C.
• Air Quality: A notable deterioration has occurred. The Air Quality Index (AQI) has slipped into the "moderate" category, a common post-flood occurrence as humidity and pollutants mix.
• Winds: Northwesterly winds at 15–25 kmph will provide some relief.

This weather update follows an extreme period for the capital. In early September, Delhi experienced significant flooding as the Yamuna River breached its danger mark. The city's seasonal rainfall has already exceeded its annual average. Furthermore, a global weather office has issued a La Niña warning, which has the potential to influence global weather patterns, including those in India, in the coming months.