Major cities like Mumbai, Chennai, and Bengaluru face significant disruption, while northern states like Delhi experience foggy conditions.
"The southwest monsoon is active over several parts of the country, leading to these widespread weather events," the India Meteorological Department (IMD) stated in its bulletin, warning citizens of significant rainfall and disruptive weather patterns across India today.
The national weather forecaster has issued a multi-tier alert system, signaling potential weather hazards. The most severe, an Orange Alert, is in place for Sub-Himalayan West Bengal and Sikkim, urging residents to "be prepared" for isolated heavy to very heavy rainfall. This level of alert advises people to expect disruptions to power and travel and to be cautious. Furthermore, a Yellow Alert for moderate rain has been issued for Mumbai, indicating "be aware" conditions, and is extended to several northeastern states and coastal regions.
Mumbai: The financial capital is bracing for heavy thunderstorms throughout the day and night, with a high 45% chance of precipitation. It is recommended that commuters prepare for possible delays on the train and road systems.
Chennai: The city is expected to experience heavy thunderstorms with an even higher 75% chance of rain during the day. A Yellow Alert is effectively in place given the intensity forecast.
Bengaluru: The tech hub is in for a consistently wet day with a 70% chance of rain and cooler temperatures peaking at 25°C.
Kolkata: Although it should clear up by night, residents should anticipate thunderstorms with a noteworthy 65% chance of rain during the day.
While the east and south grapple with rain, northern and western India are experiencing a different weather pattern.
New Delhi: The capital is wrapped in fog with a very minimal (0.76%) chance of rain. Temperatures are expected to be stable but the fog could impact visibility during morning hours.
Ahmedabad & Hyderabad: Both cities are forecast to have misty conditions with temperatures around 30°C and 25°C respectively.
Pune: The city is likely to see patchy rain nearby with a pleasant temperature of 22°C.
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The IMD bulletin highlights a broader pattern of intense monsoon activity beyond the major cities. Isolated heavy rainfall is very likely over:
Coastal alerts have also been issued, with squally weather and strong winds (35-45 kmph) predicted for the Gulf of Mannar, south Bay of Bengal, and along the coasts of Sri Lanka and the Andaman Sea.
