IMD Issues Red Warning – In a significant development, the India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued a red alert warning for several states ahead of the weekend. The alert forecasts heavy to very heavy rainfall, thunderstorms, lightning, and strong winds, posing serious risk to life and property. As monsoon currents strengthen across the subcontinent, multiple regions are expected to face intense weather conditions. The red alert is the highest level of weather warning issued by IMD and implies that authorities must take action and citizens should stay indoors unless absolutely necessary. Let’s understand which regions are most affected, the expected impact, and necessary safety guidelines.
IMD Red Alert: What Does It Mean?
When the IMD issues a Red Alert, it signals the most severe level of weather warning, indicating extreme conditions like torrential rainfall, thunderstorms, and strong winds that can pose serious threats to life and property. It urges both authorities and the public to take immediate precautions, avoid travel, and prepare for potential disruptions such as flooding, landslides, or infrastructure damage. This alert is not just a caution, it’s a call to action to stay safe and vigilant.
Key Indicators of Red Warning:
- Extremely heavy rainfall (above 204.5 mm in 24 hours)
- Potential flooding and waterlogging
- Disruption to travel and transportation
- Risk of landslides in hilly terrain
- Thunderstorms with lightning and strong winds (50-70 km/h)
States Under Red Alert This Weekend
Several states across India have been placed under a red alert by the India Meteorological Department (IMD) for this weekend due to the forecast of extremely heavy rainfall and severe thunderstorms. Regions like Maharashtra, Kerala, Karnataka, Goa, and parts of the Northeast are expected to witness intense downpours, strong winds, and lightning. The red alert indicates a high risk to life and property, prompting local administrations to stay on high alert and advise residents to take maximum precautions and avoid unnecessary travel.
The following states are currently under the red warning for the upcoming weekend, as per IMD’s forecast:
| State | Date of Warning | Type of Alert | Expected Rainfall | Thunderstorm Alert | Flooding Risk | Wind Speed | Advisory |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Maharashtra | 25th-26th May | Red Alert | 200+ mm | Yes | High | 60-70 km/h | Stay Indoors |
| Kerala | 25th-27th May | Red Alert | 220+ mm | Yes | Very High | 50-60 km/h | Avoid Travel |
| Karnataka (Coastal) | 25th May | Red Alert | 210 mm | Yes | High | 60 km/h | Emergency Services On Alert |
| Goa | 25th-26th May | Red Alert | 200+ mm | Yes | Moderate | 60 km/h | Tourist Advisory |
| Tamil Nadu (Nilgiris) | 26th May | Orange to Red | 180 mm+ | Yes | Moderate | 40-60 km/h | Avoid Hill Travel |
| Assam & Meghalaya | 25th-27th May | Red Alert | 250 mm+ | Yes | High | 50-70 km/h | Landslide Risk |
| Uttarakhand | 26th May | Red Alert | 170 mm | Yes | Very High | 40-50 km/h | Flash Flood Warning |
| Himachal Pradesh | 26th May | Red Alert | 160 mm | Yes | High | 40-60 km/h | Monitor River Levels |
IMD Forecast Details for Weekend
IMD has shared a breakdown of the expected weather patterns for different zones:
- Northwest India: Heavy rain with hailstorms in isolated pockets. Flash flood warning for Uttarakhand and Himachal Pradesh.
- Western India: Torrential rains in Maharashtra and Goa. High tides in Konkan coastal belts.
- Southern India: Monsoon surge causing intense spells over Kerala, coastal Karnataka, and Nilgiris region.
- Northeast India: Thunderstorms with lightning, heavy showers in Assam, Meghalaya, and Arunachal Pradesh. Risk of landslides in hill regions.
Safety Guidelines Issued by IMD and NDMA
Residents in the affected areas are urged to take the following precautions:
- Avoid stepping out during intense rainfall unless necessary
- Do not take shelter under trees during thunderstorms
- Disconnect electrical appliances during lightning
- Avoid waterlogged areas and riverbanks
- Keep emergency kits and first aid ready
- Stay updated through official IMD channels and local authorities
Travel Disruption Expected Across States
Transport authorities have also cautioned about disruptions across rail, road, and air routes. The expected impact includes:
| Mode of Travel | Expected Disruptions | Safety Measures |
|---|---|---|
| Roads & Highways | Waterlogging, reduced visibility | Avoid travel, maintain distance |
| Railways | Delays, cancellations | Check live train status before travel |
| Airports | Flight delays, cancellations | Arrive early, monitor airline notifications |
| Public Transport | Disrupted schedules | Use only essential services |
Emergency Services & Helpline Numbers
Governments of the affected states have activated disaster management teams. Citizens can reach out to the following emergency services:
- National Disaster Response Force (NDRF): 1078
- State Disaster Management Authority (SDMA): Respective state helplines
- IMD Weather Alerts: www.mausam.imd.gov.in
Farmers and Rural Residents Advised Caution
The IMD has also urged farmers in affected regions to protect crops and livestock:
- Secure loose items and animal shelters
- Avoid working in open fields during storms
- Drain excess water from fields to avoid crop rot
- Postpone sowing activities in heavily affected regions
This weekend’s weather poses serious risks across many parts of India. The IMD’s red alert is a strong indication of the severity of the upcoming storms. Citizens are advised to follow safety instructions strictly, monitor official weather channels, and avoid unnecessary travel. By staying alert and prepared, the potential dangers from these extreme weather events can be minimized.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1: What is a Red Alert by IMD?
A red alert is the highest level of weather warning issued by the IMD, indicating extremely heavy rainfall and hazardous weather conditions requiring immediate action.
Q2: Which states are most affected this weekend?
Maharashtra, Kerala, Goa, Assam, Karnataka, and Uttarakhand are among the states under red warning.
Q3: Can I travel during the red alert days?
Travel is not advised during red alert periods unless absolutely necessary due to risks of flooding, road blockages, and transport disruptions.
Q4: What should I do if I’m in a red alert zone?
Stay indoors, follow local authority advisories, keep emergency contacts ready, and avoid risky areas like rivers or hillsides.
Q5: How can I stay updated with real-time alerts?
Visit the IMD official website, use weather apps like Mausam or AccuWeather, and follow your local administration’s social media for updates.