New Monsoon Crisis Unfolds: 20 States on High Alert, Monsoon arrives 12 days earlier in Maharashtra
IMD Issues Orange Alert for Pune, Shimla, and Several States as Heavy Rainfall Persists; Cloudy Skies Expected in Delhi
IMD warns of widespread heavy rains, thunderstorms, and gale-force winds across India
A significant weather alert has been issued across India as the Indian Meteorological Department (IMD) warns of severe monsoon conditions affecting large parts of the country. With the monsoon advancing ahead of schedule, entering Maharashtra a full 12 days early, weather patterns have intensified, prompting a red alert in multiple regions.
According to the IMD, twenty states across northeast, northwest, south, and central India are now under high alert. The forecast for the next 48 to 96 hours includes extremely heavy rainfall, thunderstorm activity, and gale-force winds reaching speeds up to 70 kmph. This marks the first widespread red alert for the 2025 monsoon season.
Northeast India Faces Torrential Rains
From June 1 onwards, Assam, Manipur, Mizoram, and Tripura are expected to receive intense rainfall accompanied by thunderstorms. The warning also extends to Arunachal Pradesh, West Bengal, and Sikkim, where conditions are likely to worsen. A red alert has been officially declared for these northeastern states.
North India Braces for Thunderstorms and Gale-Force Winds
In Delhi, Haryana, Punjab, Uttarakhand, Himachal Pradesh, and Rajasthan, the IMD predicts rain, thunderstorms, and strong winds for the next three days. Wind speeds may vary between 40 and 70 kmph.
- In Uttarakhand, the alert is particularly critical, with extremely heavy rainfall expected between June 2 and June 4.
- Punjab and Haryana are likely to receive heavy showers on June 3.
Maharashtra: Monsoon Arrives Early
Maharashtra is in the spotlight as the monsoon arrived 12 days earlier than usual. The state has been experiencing continued rainfall, and the IMD now warns of very heavy rains and gusty winds, especially in the Vidarbha region. A red alert has been issued for multiple districts, with emergency services instructed to remain on standby.
Southern States Face Continued Rainfall
States in southern India are not spared. Kerala, Karnataka, Andhra Pradesh, and Telangana have all received warnings for heavy rainfall for the next four days. Kerala, in particular, is expected to receive consistent downpours, prompting authorities to remain on high alert for potential flooding and landslides.
Central India and Bihar Also on Watch
The storm system is also expected to impact Madhya Pradesh and Bihar, where rainfall coupled with gusty winds is likely. In many regions, pre-monsoon showers have already caused waterlogging and disruption, further exacerbating concerns ahead of the full monsoon’s arrival.
Preparedness and Response
Authorities across states are being urged to activate disaster response units, set up emergency shelters, and ensure the availability of medical and rescue teams. Farmers and residents in low-lying areas are advised to take precautions, avoid unnecessary travel, and stay updated through official weather advisories.
This early onset and intensity of the monsoon highlight growing concerns around shifting climate patterns and the increasing unpredictability of seasonal changes. The IMD continues to monitor the developments closely, with fresh bulletins expected every six hours.
