Heavy rain has been making headlines across the country, and you probably have seen the headlines yourself – flooding in Delhi, red alerts in Punjab, and clouds bursting over the Himalayas. Let’s break down the biggest stories, what the weather agencies are saying, and how you can stay safe if the water starts rising around you.
At the start of the week the India Meteorological Department (IMD) issued a red alert for several North Indian states. Punjab saw its worst floods since 1988, with villages swamped and roads underwater. On the Delhi‑NCR fringe, a broken drain on the Haryana‑Delhi border forced evacuations, and the Yamuna crept up to 207.44 metres – just shy of its 1978 peak. Flights were delayed, and even cremations at Nigambodh Ghat had to pause.
Further east, a low‑pressure system over the Bay of Bengal is set to drench 13 states. Expect heavy rain, strong winds and rough seas as the system moves toward West Bengal and North Odisha. The IMD has already warned of flash floods and landslides in Jammu & Kashmir, where saturated slopes could make travel risky.
Uttarakhand isn’t safe either. A cloudburst in Chamoli’s Tharali district has the IMD on high alert for the next 24 hours, with chances of landslides and flash floods from Dehradun to Bageshwar. And in Jharkhand, an orange alert means heavy downpours are coming for Ranchi and surrounding districts.
Bihar’s rivers have also surged, affecting more than 25 lakh people. The Ganga and other rivers are above danger levels, and the state government has deployed boats, community kitchens and relief teams to help those stranded.
First, keep an eye on IMD updates. The alerts switch from yellow to orange to red, and each level calls for different actions. If you see a red alert, treat it like a real emergency – pack essentials, charge your phone and have an evacuation plan ready.
Second, avoid low‑lying areas. Even if the water looks shallow, it can be fast‑moving and dangerous. If you must drive, use higher‑ground routes and be prepared for road diversions, especially near airports and major highways.
Third, protect your home. Move valuables to higher floors, sandbag doors if you have them, and turn off electricity at the main switch if flooding seems imminent. Keep a small kit with water, dry food, a flashlight, and basic medication.
Lastly, look out for neighbours. Floods spread quickly, and many seniors or people without transport rely on community help. A quick text or call can make a big difference.
Rain season is in full swing, and the weather can change fast. By staying informed, planning ahead and helping each other, you can get through the heavy downpours with minimal hassle. Keep checking this page for the latest rain updates and practical tips.
With the end of the harsh heatwave in Uttar Pradesh, temperatures have dropped and residents can expect scattered rain and chances of hail in some areas. IMD forecasts bring relief but also warnings of warm nights in neighboring states. Be ready for changing skies and a few stormy days ahead.