The Monsoon's Current State
According to the IMD, a low-pressure area over Gangetic West Bengal and adjoining Jharkhand is the primary driver of this wet spell. This system is expected to move northwestward, keeping the monsoon trough active. As a result, several regions will experience
fairly widespread to widespread rainfall, with some states on alert for heavy to very heavy downpours. Travellers and residents alike are advised to stay updated, as conditions can change rapidly.
Eastern and Northeastern India on High Alert
This region is expected to bear a significant brunt of the upcoming weather. Odisha is bracing for heavy rainfall from August 27, with warnings for isolated very heavy rainfall from August 29 to September 1. Similarly, Jharkhand, Bihar, and West Bengal are also expected to see heavy rainfall spells through August 30. For the northeastern states, including Arunachal Pradesh, Assam, Meghalaya, and the Nagaland-Manipur-Mizoram-Tripura belt, widespread rain is forecast, with isolated heavy showers likely. The intensity could increase around August 30, with a possibility of very heavy rainfall in some areas. Travellers in these regions should be particularly cautious of potential landslides and waterlogging.
Central India to Remain Wet
Central India will continue to experience significant rainfall. Widespread showers are anticipated over East Madhya Pradesh and Chhattisgarh from August 27 to September 1. The IMD has previously warned of heavy to very heavy rainfall in isolated places across Madhya Pradesh and Chhattisgarh, leading to a risk of inundation in low-lying areas. While the most intense spells for West Madhya Pradesh were forecast for August 25-26, the region is expected to remain damp.
Forecast for North and West India
In the north, the Western Himalayan region will see increased rainfall activity. Uttarakhand is likely to receive fairly widespread rainfall through September 1, with isolated heavy spells expected from August 30. In contrast, plains like Haryana, Chandigarh, Delhi, and Punjab are likely to see only isolated rainfall over the next week. In the west, the Konkan coast and Goa are expected to receive widespread rainfall until August 30. Coastal Karnataka will also remain wet through the end of the month.
A Guide for Travellers
Given the widespread nature of the forecast, travel plans are likely to be affected. The IMD has explicitly advised those travelling to mountainous states to check weather forecasts and road conditions before embarking on their journey. Heavy rain can lead to waterlogging, traffic disruptions, and, in hilly areas, landslides and mudslides. Airlines have also issued advisories, warning of potential delays and cancellations due to bad weather in cities like Delhi. It is crucial for anyone planning to travel to build extra time into their schedules, stay informed through official channels, and prioritize safety. Avoid taking shelter under trees during thunderstorms and be prepared for disruptions to road and rail traffic.
