IMD's Weekend Weather Outlook
According to the latest bulletins from the India Meteorological Department (IMD), active monsoon conditions are expected to persist over the upcoming weekend. A deep depression moving inland is set to bring widespread rainfall to many parts of the country.
Heavy rainfall alerts have been issued for several states, including Maharashtra, Gujarat, Rajasthan, Uttarakhand, Himachal Pradesh, Kerala, and Karnataka. This means that many popular weekend destinations and the highways leading to them will be experiencing significant downpours, increasing the risk of waterlogging, reduced visibility, and landslides in vulnerable areas. Officials are urging travellers to remain vigilant and check local advisories before starting their journey.
Western Routes: Mumbai, Pune, and Konkan
For those planning to drive out from Mumbai and Pune, caution is paramount. The ghat sections of the Mumbai-Pune Expressway and the old highway are particularly susceptible to heavy rain. Recent history shows that intense spells can lead to landslides, causing major traffic disruptions for hours. The IMD has forecast isolated heavy to very heavy rainfall for the Konkan region and Madhya Maharashtra through the end of July. This affects popular getaways like Lonavala, Khandala, Mahabaleshwar, and the routes towards Goa. Areas in the Western Ghats have already recorded significant rainfall, so travellers should be prepared for slick roads and potential closures. It is advisable to avoid travel during peak rainfall periods and check for traffic updates from highway authorities.
Northern Hills: Delhi to the Himalayas
Weekend trips from the Delhi-NCR region to the mountains of Himachal Pradesh and Uttarakhand require careful planning. The IMD has warned of widespread rainfall, with a risk of landslides and flash floods in the Himalayan states. Key tourist districts like Shimla, Kullu, Mandi, Nainital, and Dehradun are under alert. Landslides have previously blocked major national highways in these regions, stranding travellers. The Char Dham Yatra routes are also being monitored closely due to the fragile terrain. With heavy rain predicted, authorities warn that even moderate showers can trigger debris fall on mountain roads. Anyone planning a trip to destinations like Shimla, Manali, Mussoorie, or Rishikesh should factor in extra travel time and monitor weather conditions closely.
Southern Ghats: Bengaluru and Chennai Routes
In the south, popular monsoon destinations in the Western Ghats are also on alert. The IMD has predicted isolated heavy rainfall for Coastal and South Interior Karnataka as well as Kerala. This impacts routes from Bengaluru to Coorg (Kodagu), Chikmagalur, and Wayanad, which are prone to landslides and localised flooding during heavy downpours. Similarly, travellers from Chennai heading towards ghat locations like Yercaud should be cautious. Coastal routes, such as the one to Puducherry, may experience waterlogging and strong winds. The key advice for travellers in the south is to check the status of ghat roads before leaving, as they can be closed by authorities with little warning if conditions worsen.
Your Monsoon Travel Checklist
Regardless of your destination, travelling during the monsoon demands extra preparation. Before you hit the road, ensure your car is in optimal condition. Check the tyre treads, brakes, and wipers. Pack an emergency kit containing a first-aid box, a powerful torch, extra food and water, and a fully charged power bank for your phone. Always inform a family member or friend about your travel itinerary and expected arrival time. While driving, maintain a safe distance from the vehicle ahead, avoid speeding on wet roads, and never attempt to drive through heavily waterlogged streets or overflowing streams. Most importantly, stay updated with the latest weather forecasts and traffic advisories from official sources like the IMD and local police. If a red alert is issued for your route, the safest decision is often to postpone your trip.
