Monsoon hits India: Rain alerts issued

• Monsoon brings heavy rain and heat relief across much of India
• Mumbai and Kerala on orange alert for heavy rain and flooding
• Residents face traffic delays, landslides and high tide risks

The monsoon is in full swing across India, bringing everything from intense downpours to welcome relief from the heat. From the humid plains of Delhi to the rain-lashed coast of Kerala, here’s a look at the weather before you head out.

Northern India: Relief in Sight for Delhi

Delhi and the surrounding NCR are currently experiencing hot and humid conditions, but a change is on the horizon. While the official monsoon is expected to arrive around July 3rd or 4th, pre-monsoon showers and thunderstorms are likely today, which could bring some respite from the oppressive heat. The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued a yellow alert, warning of thunderstorms and gusty winds. A gradual drop in maximum temperatures is expected over the next few days, providing much-needed relief. However, residents should be prepared for traffic disruptions caused by sudden showers. The monsoon has already advanced into parts of Uttar Pradesh, Uttarakhand, and Himachal Pradesh, bringing moderate to heavy rainfall to the region.

Western Coast: Mumbai on Orange Alert

Mumbai is bracing for heavy to very heavy rainfall, with the IMD issuing an Orange Alert for the city and its suburbs like Thane and Palghar. Intense monsoon showers have already caused significant waterlogging in low-lying areas, leading to traffic congestion and disruptions to daily life. Incidents of uprooted trees have been reported, including one near the DN Nagar Metro Station that caused transit delays. Authorities are on high alert, and citizens are advised to avoid unnecessary travel during intense spells. High tides are also expected, which could exacerbate waterlogging. The consistent heavy rain is a typical feature of Mumbai's monsoon in July, but residents should remain cautious.

Southern Peninsula: Kerala on High Alert

Down south, Kerala is experiencing a vigorous monsoon. The IMD has issued orange alerts for several districts, including Kannur and Kasaragod, warning of heavy to very heavy rainfall. Many other districts are under a yellow alert, with forecasts of heavy rain. These intense showers bring a high risk of landslides and flash floods in hilly and vulnerable areas. Authorities have advised residents in these regions to be prepared to move to safer locations if necessary. Strong winds and squally weather are also expected along the coast, and fishermen have been warned not to venture into the sea. Widespread rain is predicted to continue across the state for the next several days.

Central and Eastern India: Widespread Monsoon Activity

The monsoon is active across central and eastern India as well. States like Madhya Pradesh, Chhattisgarh, Bihar, and Jharkhand are experiencing the advance of the monsoon, with widespread rain and thunderstorms expected. Parts of Rajasthan, particularly the Kota and Udaipur divisions, are also set to receive moderate to heavy rainfall. In the east, West Bengal and the northeastern states are forecast to receive significant rainfall, with possibilities of thunderstorms and gusty winds. This widespread rain is crucial for the agricultural season, though the IMD has also issued alerts for lightning and strong winds in several areas.