Yamuna Level – Current Status, Alerts & What You Need to Know

Every monsoon season the Yamuna river swells, and sudden spikes can turn streets into rivers. If you live in Delhi, the NCR, or nearby districts, keeping an eye on the river’s level can save you a lot of trouble. In the past few weeks, heavy rains have pushed the Yamuna past its safe mark, prompting red alerts from the Indian Meteorological Department (IMD). Here’s a quick rundown of what’s happening and how you can stay ahead of the water.

Latest Water Level Readings

As of the latest IMD bulletin, the Yamuna in Delhi is hovering around 21.5 metres, just a metre shy of the critical flood line. Several low‑lying colonies along the riverbank reported waterlogging of up to 30 cm after the night‑time downpour that started on August 20. The same rain system also caused the Ganga to rise in Uttar Pradesh, but the focus remains on Delhi because the city’s drainage network struggles to cope.

Neighbouring states aren’t immune either. Punjab’s canals, feeding into the Yamuna, have breached in a few spots, adding extra pressure. The IMD has issued a red alert for the whole north‑central belt, meaning heavy to very heavy rain is expected for the next 48‑72 hours. If the rain holds, the river could breach the 22‑metre mark, triggering emergency measures such as sandbag walls and temporary shelters.

How to Prepare for Flood Risks

First, keep a battery‑powered radio or a reliable news app open. IMD updates and Delhi’s Civic Authority alerts usually come out every six hours. If you hear a warning about a “red alert,” move valuables to higher floors immediately and avoid basements.

Second, protect your home. Stack sandbags at doorways, seal any cracks in walls, and place important documents in waterproof bags. If you live near a low‑lying road, consider a quick evacuation plan: know the nearest higher‑ground lane, keep a small emergency kit ready, and inform family members of the route.

Third, help your neighbours. Many elderly residents can’t move quickly when water rises. A phone call or a quick knock can alert them to the risk and maybe arrange a ride to a safer spot.

Finally, stay calm during the actual flood. Water can rise fast, but it’s usually slower than people think. If you’re stuck, move to the roof or top floor, signal rescuers with a flashlight or cloth, and avoid walking through fast‑moving water – it can knock you over easily.

The Delhi government has already deployed NDRF teams and 1,200 boats to the most vulnerable zones. Relief kitchens are set up near the flood‑prone districts, offering warm meals and basic medical aid. Keep an eye on social media for the latest location of these shelters.

In short, the Yamuna’s level is a clear sign that the monsoon is still very active. By checking the latest readings, preparing your house, and staying connected with local alerts, you can reduce the impact of any sudden surge. Keep this page bookmarked – we’ll update it as soon as new level data or safety instructions come in.

Delhi rainfall pushes Yamuna above evacuation mark; flights delayed, diversions across NCR

Delhi rainfall pushes Yamuna above evacuation mark; flights delayed, diversions across NCR
4 September 2025 Arjun Rao

Heavy rain swamped Delhi-NCR, pushing the Yamuna to 207.44 m—just below the 1978 peak—and forcing a pause in cremations at Nigambodh Ghat. IMD alerts eased to yellow, but travel chaos persisted with 273 flight departures and 73 arrivals delayed. Key roads flooded near IGI Airport and along the Outer Ring Road as police issued diversions. Rainy spells are likely through Sept 7, with air quality staying satisfactory.