Go Beyond the Basic Forecast
A standard weather app showing a cloud and raindrop icon isn't enough for monsoon travel. The difference between a light drizzle that enhances the beauty of a place and a torrential downpour that can cause flash floods is huge. You need detailed information
that answers specific questions: How many millimetres of rain are expected? For how many hours will it rain? Is it a short, intense spell or a prolonged, steady downpour? This level of detail helps you decide whether to proceed with a day of sightseeing or stay put. The India Meteorological Department (IMD) provides quantitative rainfall forecasts that can be incredibly useful.
Understand IMD Colour-Coded Alerts
The IMD uses a four-colour code to warn citizens about adverse weather, which is crucial for travellers. A 'Green' alert means all is well, while 'Yellow' means be updated. An 'Orange' alert is a call to be prepared for potentially disruptive weather, like extremely heavy rain, which could disrupt transport and other activities. A 'Red' alert is the most serious, signalling a 'take action' status due to a high risk to life and property from events like severe flooding. Before and during your trip, check the IMD's official website or their 'Mausam' app for any active warnings for your destination. Treating an Orange alert as a signal to reconsider plans and a Red alert as a reason to stop can keep you safe.
Check for Landslide and Flood Warnings
If you are travelling to hill stations or coastal regions, checking for specific advisories on landslides and flooding is non-negotiable. Heavy rainfall saturates the soil on slopes, making them unstable. For destinations in the Himalayas or the Western Ghats, look for landslide warnings issued by the IMD and local authorities. Similarly, for low-lying areas and cities, check for flood and waterlogging alerts. Driving on ghat roads at night or during heavy rain is extremely risky. Local police and disaster management authorities often post real-time updates on road closures and hazardous zones, which are vital for planning your route.
Monitor Wind Speed and Coastal Alerts
For those heading to coastal destinations like Goa, Kerala, or the Andamans, rainfall is only part of the story. Strong winds, high waves, and swell surges are significant risks. The IMD and the Indian National Centre for Ocean Information Services (INCOIS) issue specific marine and coastal forecasts. These include warnings about high wave heights and strong surface winds, which can make beaches unsafe and halt ferry services or fishing activities. Before venturing near the sea, always check for these specific advisories to avoid dangerous conditions.
Use Reliable Weather Sources
Not all weather apps are created equal, especially for the complexities of the Indian monsoon. For the most authoritative information, rely on official government sources. The 'Mausam' app, from the IMD, provides forecasts, radar images, and district-wise warnings. Other reliable private players like Skymet Weather also offer detailed, India-focused data. Apps like AccuWeather and Weather Underground are also popular and provide useful features like minute-by-minute precipitation forecasts. Checking these multiple, credible sources gives you a more complete picture of the conditions you're likely to face.
Don't Forget Humidity and 'Real Feel'
Monsoon isn't just about rain; it's also about high humidity. While the temperature might drop after a shower, the 'real feel' temperature can still be quite high and uncomfortable due to the moisture in the air. High humidity can make physical activities more strenuous and can be a health concern for some. Packing quick-dry clothing and staying hydrated becomes more important. Some weather apps provide a 'real feel' or 'feels like' temperature, which gives you a much better idea of how to dress and plan your day's activities for comfort.
