Today's Weather Breakdown
The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has forecast an active monsoon day for June 29th, with conditions ripe for thunderstorms, rain, and gusty winds across several regions. [3] The day starts with temperatures climbing, creating a warm and humid
environment, particularly in inland areas. Cities like Delhi are expecting a partly cloudy sky with temperatures around 30-31°C, but with a forecast for light rain and thunderstorms developing towards the afternoon or night. [6] Similarly, southern cities such as Chennai, Hyderabad, and Thiruvananthapuram are on alert for moderate rain and thunderstorms. [8] This classic monsoon pattern—a hot,蒸し暑い morning that gives way to an afternoon downpour—is expected to play out across various states, including West Bengal, Assam, Bihar, and Jharkhand, which are braced for heavy spells. [3]
The Science of the Storm
This weather pattern is a hallmark of the summer monsoon. [20] The science is straightforward: land heats up much faster than the ocean during the day. [21] This intense morning and midday sun warms the ground, causing the air above it to heat up, expand, and rise. This creates a low-pressure area. [20] Meanwhile, the air over the cooler Indian Ocean is denser and at a higher pressure. Nature abhors a vacuum, so this cooler, moisture-laden air from the sea rushes inland to fill the void. As this humid air is pulled into the hot, unstable atmosphere over land, it rises rapidly, cools, and condenses, forming towering cumulonimbus clouds. [21] This process is the engine of a thunderstorm, leading to the lightning, thunder, and heavy rain predicted for this afternoon. The active phase of the monsoon, currently advancing across the country, makes this phenomenon more pronounced. [18]
Your Thunderstorm Safety Checklist
When thunder roars, go indoors. That's the most crucial advice. The IMD and other disaster management agencies recommend seeking shelter in a sturdy, concrete building as soon as you hear thunder or see lightning. [4, 5] Once inside, there are further steps to take. Shut all windows and doors, and avoid standing near them. [4] Unplug electronics like televisions and computers to protect them from power surges. [5] It is also advised to avoid contact with water during a thunderstorm; this means no showering, washing dishes, or using taps, as lightning can travel through plumbing. [9, 10] If you use a landline, it's safer to use a mobile phone instead. [5] Stay inside for at least 30 minutes after the last clap of thunder to ensure the storm has passed. [4]
Caught Outside? Here’s What to Do
If you find yourself caught in the open with no immediate shelter, some actions are better than others. Do not take shelter under a tall or isolated tree, as trees are often struck by lightning. [10] Similarly, stay away from metal objects like fences, poles, or umbrellas. [5] If you are in an open field, do not lie flat. Instead, crouch down in a ball-like position with your feet together and your head tucked, making yourself as small a target as possible. [9] If you are in a car, it can be a safe place to wait out the storm. Roll up the windows and avoid touching any metal parts of the vehicle's interior. [9] It's also critical to avoid waterlogged streets, especially in urban areas, as water is an excellent conductor of electricity and may hide downed power lines. [4]
Planning Your Commute and Travel
The forecast necessitates a careful approach to travel. Afternoon and evening commutes could be disrupted by heavy rain, leading to waterlogging and traffic snarls. If possible, adjust your travel plans to avoid the peak storm hours, which are typically in the late afternoon. Before heading out, check live weather updates and traffic reports for your route. [13] If you are riding a two-wheeler or in an open vehicle, it is imperative to find safe shelter immediately when a storm begins; do not attempt to ride through it. [9] Public transport may also face delays, so building extra time into your journey is a wise precaution for a day like today.
