The Four Colours of Safety
The IMD uses a simple, four-colour system to warn citizens about impending weather conditions. The goal is to provide clear, actionable information that everyone can understand, from disaster management authorities to the general public. These alerts—Green,
Yellow, Orange, and Red—indicate an escalating level of severity and help you decide whether to travel, wait, or stay home. While they are used for various weather events like cyclones and heatwaves, they are most frequently encountered during the monsoon season to warn of heavy rainfall.
Green Alert: All Clear, Proceed as Normal
A Green alert means 'All is Well'. It signifies that no severe weather is expected and there are no advisories for commuters or the public. You can expect normal weather conditions, which might include light, sporadic showers or even dry spells during the monsoon. For your daily commute, a Green alert means you can carry on with your plans without worrying about weather-related disruptions. No special precautions are needed, though carrying an umbrella is always a good idea during the season.
Yellow Alert: Be Aware
When the IMD issues a Yellow alert, it's a signal to 'Be Aware'. This means that weather conditions are likely to worsen and could cause some disruption to daily activities. A Yellow alert typically corresponds to moderate rainfall, which may lead to minor waterlogging in low-lying areas or slight traffic delays. It's not a call to cancel plans, but to stay updated and be cautious. For commuters, this is the time to allow for extra travel time, check your route for potential bottlenecks, and keep your rain gear handy.
Orange Alert: Be Prepared
An Orange alert is a serious warning that means 'Be Prepared'. It is issued when heavy to very heavy rainfall is expected, which has the potential to cause significant disruptions. This is when you should anticipate major traffic congestion, flooded streets, and delays or cancellations of public transport. Power cuts are also a possibility. If an Orange alert is active for your area, it is wise to reconsider non-essential travel. If you must go out, check your route meticulously, inform someone of your travel plans, and ensure your phone is fully charged. Authorities may advise people to stay indoors.
Red Alert: Take Action
A Red alert is the highest level of warning and means 'Take Action'. It is issued when extremely heavy rainfall is forecast, posing a significant risk to life and property. A Red alert anticipates widespread flooding, major disruption to transport and power, and the potential for structural damage. During a Red alert, the primary advice is to prioritise safety and avoid all non-essential travel. Authorities may issue evacuation orders for people in vulnerable, low-lying areas and schools or offices might be closed. If you are already on the road when a Red alert is issued, find a safe place to wait out the storm and follow instructions from local disaster management officials.
Smart Commuting Beyond the Alerts
Beyond understanding the colour codes, a few extra steps can make your monsoon commute much safer. Before leaving, always check the latest district-wise alerts on the IMD's official 'Mausam' app or website. Don't just check the weather at your destination, but also along your route, as conditions can vary significantly. Avoid driving through waterlogged streets, as it is difficult to judge the depth of the water and there may be hidden potholes or open manholes. Keep an emergency kit with a power bank, some dry snacks, drinking water, and a first-aid kit in your vehicle or bag. Having flexible travel plans and keeping buffer time can also reduce stress during unexpected delays.
