The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued a comprehensive weather forecast for the next seven days, warning travellers and residents of disruptive weather phenomena across various parts of the country. The predictions, valid until May 14, include heavy rains, thunderstorms, hailstorms, thundersqualls, and heatwave conditions. Popular tourist destinations and routes, especially in the Himalayan region, northeast India, Kerala, Tamil Nadu, Rajasthan, and parts of central and eastern India, are likely to experience unpredictable weather.
Western Himalayan Region and North India
A fresh western disturbance is expected to impact the Western Himalayan Region from May 10, triggering another spell of rain in North India. Jammu and Kashmir, Himachal Pradesh, and Uttarakhand are likely to witness rainfall, thunderstorms, strong gusty winds, and isolated hailstorms. Thundersqualls with wind speeds reaching up to 70 km/h have been forecast for Uttarakhand and Jammu and Kashmir. Hill stations in these regions may face slippery roads, blockades, and travel delays due to the adverse weather conditions.
Northeast India
Northeast India is expected to continue experiencing an active rain spell. States such as Assam, Meghalaya, Arunachal Pradesh, Nagaland, Manipur, Mizoram, and Tripura will see widespread rainfall accompanied by thunderstorms and gusty winds. Heavy rainfall is predicted over Arunachal Pradesh between May 13 and 14, while Assam and Meghalaya will face heavy downpours from May 12 to 14. Popular destinations like Shillong, Cherrapunji, Kaziranga, Tawang, and Ziro may experience poor visibility, waterlogged areas, and landslide-prone routes due to the rains.
Eastern India
Eastern India will also encounter strong weather conditions in the coming days. Rain and thunderstorms are likely in Bihar, Jharkhand, Gangetic West Bengal, Odisha, and Sub-Himalayan West Bengal and Sikkim. Very strong thundersqualls with wind velocities of up to 70 km/h have been forecast for Bihar, Jharkhand, and Gangetic West Bengal. Hailstorm activities have also been reported in some regions of Jharkhand and West Bengal. These conditions may disrupt road travel and train schedules, particularly in the evenings and at night when thunderstorm activities intensify.
South India
South India continues to experience pre-monsoon weather conditions. Kerala, Tamil Nadu, Lakshadweep, Coastal Andhra Pradesh, Karnataka, Telangana, and Rayalaseema will witness thunderstorms and gusty winds throughout the week. According to the IMD, isolated heavy rainfall is expected in Kerala and Tamil Nadu over the next seven days. Heavy rainfall is also predicted for Lakshadweep and South Interior Karnataka during parts of the forecast period. Tourists visiting beaches and hills in these regions may encounter sudden weather disruptions, including flash floods in some low-lying areas.
Western India: Heatwave Conditions
While most of India braces for rain, the western region continues to grapple with extreme heat. Heatwave conditions are likely to prevail in Saurashtra, Kutch, and West Rajasthan, with Gujarat expected to experience heatwave conditions starting May 9. Barmer in Rajasthan recorded the country's highest temperature of 44.6 degrees Celsius on May 8. The IMD advises travellers to avoid prolonged sun exposure, stay hydrated, and limit outdoor activities during peak afternoon hours.
Konkan and Goa
Konkan and Goa are expected to experience hot and humid weather in the coming days. While isolated rains and thunderstorms may occur in parts of Maharashtra, most areas, especially along the coastline, will remain humid.
Travel Advisory
The IMD further warns travellers about the potential for heavy rainfall and thunderstorms that could cause localized flooding, traffic problems, low visibility, damage to fragile infrastructure, and interruptions in transport services. Travellers are advised to stay updated with weather news and avoid waterlogged roads.
