Monsoon Advances with Vigour
The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has confirmed the advance of the Southwest Monsoon into more parts of the country. As of June 30, the monsoon has covered the remaining parts of Bihar and Jharkhand, and advanced into parts of Uttar Pradesh, Uttarakhand,
and Himachal Pradesh. This vigorous push is bringing widespread rainfall, ending a prolonged dry and hot spell in many areas but also raising concerns about flooding and other rain-related incidents. While the monsoon is active now, the IMD's overall forecast for July suggests that rainfall for the country as a whole might be below normal. However, in the short term, several states are bracing for intense downpours.
Delhi's Respite and Traffic Woes
After enduring a severe heatwave, Delhi finally received relief as monsoon showers hit the city. The IMD had forecast light to moderate rain with thunderstorms and gusty winds for the national capital. While the rains have brought a much-needed drop in temperature, they have also led to familiar problems. Reports of waterlogging and traffic congestion have emerged from various parts of the city as the infrastructure struggles to cope with the sudden, heavy downpour. Authorities have advised commuters to check for traffic advisories and avoid areas prone to waterlogging. The forecast suggests that rainy conditions with gusty winds are likely to continue over the next few days.
Alert Sounded in Uttar Pradesh and Bihar
In Uttar Pradesh, the monsoon's arrival has put the state on alert. The IMD has forecast fairly widespread rainfall for both East and West UP in the coming days. After a prolonged period of heat, the rains are crucial for agriculture, but they also bring the threat of floods, particularly in the low-lying areas of eastern UP. Similarly, in Bihar, where the monsoon has now fully covered the state, the government has stated its preparedness for potential floods. With 28 of its 38 districts classified as flood-prone, the state is no stranger to the monsoon's fury. Authorities have been working to secure embankments and arrange for relief materials. The forecast indicates continued rainfall, with the possibility of heavy spells in the coming days.
Kerala on Orange Alert
While North India gets its first real taste of the monsoon, Kerala in the south is already dealing with an intense phase of rainfall. The IMD has issued orange and yellow alerts for several districts, warning of heavy to very heavy rainfall. An orange alert was issued for Kannur and Kasaragod, indicating the possibility of rainfall between 115.6 mm and 204.4 mm in 24 hours. Widespread rain and thunderstorms are expected to continue across the state for several days. This has raised concerns about landslides in hilly regions and waterlogging in coastal areas. Fishermen have been advised not to venture into the sea due to squally weather and strong winds.
What to Expect Next
According to the IMD, conditions remain favourable for the monsoon to advance further into the remaining parts of north India, including Haryana, Punjab, and Rajasthan, over the next two to three days. A low-pressure area is also likely to form over the northwest Bay of Bengal around July 3rd, which is expected to keep the monsoon active over the central parts of the country. For residents in the affected states, this means the wet spell is likely to continue. While this is good news for agriculture and water reservoirs after a dry June, it also means that the risk of disruptions, from urban traffic jams to rural flooding, remains high. Citizens are advised to stay updated with local weather warnings.
