The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued a high-alert weather warning for the coming week, forecasting widespread rainfall across southern and northeastern India while warning of severe heatwave conditions in parts of Uttar Pradesh and Rajasthan. The advisory, released on Sunday, outlines significant weather disturbances expected between May 18 and May 24, with potential risks of flooding, lightning, and strong winds.
In South India, several states are bracing for prolonged and heavy rainfall. The west coast, including Karnataka, Konkan, Goa, and Kerala, is expected to witness consistent showers throughout the week. The IMD has warned of possible localised flooding and waterlogging in low-lying areas, particularly in Kerala and Coastal Karnataka, where rainfall is predicted to be particularly intense.
Isolated heavy rainfall is also expected in Tamil Nadu, Puducherry, and Karaikal from May 18 to May 20, and in Rayalaseema from May 18 to May 20. Coastal Andhra Pradesh and Yanam are likely to experience rainfall between May 20 and May 22, while both South and North Interior Karnataka could see significant rainfall through much of the week.
On May 20, Coastal Karnataka is likely to be hit by extremely heavy rainfall, raising concerns for disruption and damage in the region.
In Northeast India, the IMD has predicted heavy to very heavy rainfall, accompanied by thunderstorms and lightning, across several states. Arunachal Pradesh is likely to experience heavy rain between May 18 and May 20, while Assam and Meghalaya will face an extended spell of rainfall from May 18 to May 24.
These two states may also see isolated very heavy rainfall during the initial part of the week, increasing the risk of flash floods and landslides in vulnerable hilly terrain. Tripura and Nagaland are also forecast to receive heavy rainfall on May 18. Gusty winds between 30 to 50 km/h are expected across much of the northeastern region, heightening the risk of fallen trees and minor structural damage.
The national capital is also expected to experience weather fluctuations during the week. Delhi will see partly cloudy skies with very light to light rain, along with thunderstorms and lightning.
Gusty winds are forecast to reach speeds of 30 to 40 km/h, with the potential to touch 50 km/h during storm activity. Daytime temperatures in the city are expected to range between 38 and 40 degrees Celsius, with nighttime lows between 27 and 29 degrees.
In stark contrast to the rainy conditions forecast for the south and northeast, large parts of northwestern India continue to endure intense heat. Rajasthan and Uttar Pradesh are under a heatwave alert, with temperatures soaring well above 40 degrees Celsius in many districts. The IMD has cautioned residents to take necessary precautions to avoid heat-related health risks, especially during peak afternoon hours.
As the monsoon gradually approaches, these fluctuating and extreme weather conditions reflect the transition period and underscore the need for preparedness. Authorities across the affected states have been urged to stay alert, ensure proper drainage systems, and activate emergency response measures where necessary.
