The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued a comprehensive forecast indicating a mix of heavy rainfall, thunderstorms, hailstorms, dust storms, and heatwave conditions across various parts of the country. The latest All India Weather Summary and Forecast Bulletin, released on June 17, reveals that the southwest monsoon is steadily advancing while several popular travel destinations prepare for potentially disruptive weather.
Eastern and Northeastern India
Eastern and northeastern India are likely to experience the most significant rainfall activity. The IMD has forecast isolated heavy rainfall over Bihar from June 17 to 20, while Sub-Himalayan West Bengal and Sikkim are expected to receive isolated very heavy rainfall from June 17 to 22. Assam and Meghalaya could see heavy rainfall on June 17 and again on June 21 and 22, with very heavy rainfall likely between June 18 and 20.
These conditions could impact tourism in some of the country's most scenic destinations. Hill stations in Sikkim and tea-growing landscapes in Assam may experience reduced visibility, slippery roads, and occasional traffic disruptions. Travellers heading to Darjeeling, Gangtok, Kalimpong, or the northeastern states should factor in additional travel time and remain prepared for sudden weather changes.
The IMD has warned that heavy rainfall could result in localised flooding of roads, waterlogging in low-lying urban areas, and occasional closure of underpasses. In hilly regions, there is also the possibility of landslides and mudslides, which could temporarily disrupt road connectivity.
Northwest India
Northwest India, meanwhile, is set to experience a completely different set of weather challenges. Jammu and Kashmir, Himachal Pradesh, and Uttarakhand are likely to receive rainfall over the coming days, with hailstorm activity forecast over Himachal Pradesh and Jammu and Kashmir on June 18 and 19, and over Uttarakhand on June 19.
A fresh western disturbance is expected to affect northwest India from June 18, bringing thunderstorms accompanied by lightning and gusty winds. Travellers planning mountain holidays in destinations such as Shimla, Manali, Dharamshala, Mussoorie, or Nainital may encounter intermittent showers and weather-related delays.
The plains of northwestern India are also expected to witness unstable weather. Thunderstorms accompanied by gusty winds reaching 40 to 50 kmph, gusting up to 60 kmph, are likely over Haryana, Chandigarh, Delhi, and Punjab on June 17 and again between June 19 and 22.
Rajasthan remains under particular watch. The IMD has forecast thundersqualls with wind speeds reaching 50 to 60 kmph, gusting up to 70 kmph, on June 17 and 19. Even stronger squalls, with speeds of 60 to 70 kmph gusting up to 80 kmph, are likely on June 18. Dust storm activity is also expected over western Rajasthan between June 17 and 19.
Southern India
Southern India presents a mixed picture. Kerala and Mahe are expected to receive fairly widespread to widespread rainfall through much of the forecast period, with isolated heavy rainfall likely on June 17. Tamil Nadu, Puducherry, and Karaikal are likely to experience heavy rainfall on June 17 and 18.
Monsoon enthusiasts visiting Kerala may welcome the lush landscapes and cooler conditions, but they should also be mindful of waterlogging, slippery roads, and disruptions to outdoor activities. Houseboat experiences, plantation visits, and hill drives may require greater flexibility in itineraries.
Scattered rainfall is also likely over Coastal Andhra Pradesh, Telangana, and Karnataka, accompanied by thunderstorms and gusty winds in some areas.
Heatwave Conditions
Even as many regions receive rain, parts of central and peninsular India continue to grapple with heatwave conditions. The IMD has forecast heatwave conditions over Chhattisgarh on June 17; Telangana on June 17 and 18; Vidarbha between June 17 and 19; Madhya Maharashtra and Marathwada on June 18 and 19; and parts of Uttar Pradesh between June 17 and 22.
Travellers visiting these regions are advised to avoid prolonged exposure to the sun, stay hydrated, and plan sightseeing activities during cooler parts of the day.
Marine and Coastal Advisories
Marine tourism and fishing activities could also be affected. Fishermen have been advised not to venture into several sectors of the Bay of Bengal and Arabian Sea between June 17 and 21 due to squally weather and strong winds. Coastal visitors participating in boating excursions or water-based activities should confirm local advisories before proceeding.
Impact and Precautions
The IMD's impact assessment highlights the possibility of increased travel times due to traffic congestion, reduced visibility during heavy rain, and disruptions caused by waterlogging. Authorities have advised people to check traffic conditions before leaving for their destinations, avoid flood-prone areas, and stay updated with official weather bulletins.
