Monsoon Fury: IMD Issues Alerts Across India, Heavy Rainfall Expected
The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued a series of alerts across multiple states as a well-marked low-pressure area intensifies over central India. The system, centered over interior Odisha and adjoining Chhattisgarh, is expected to bring isolated extremely heavy rainfall to various regions from July 21st to 23rd, 2024.
Central India Braces for Impact
The most severe impacts are anticipated over West Madhya Pradesh, where IMD predicts isolated extremely heavy rainfall. Surrounding areas such as East Madhya Pradesh and Vidarbha are also under alert for heavy to very heavy rainfall during this period.
Widespread Rainfall Patterns
Gujarat State is also expected to experience isolated extremely heavy rainfall over the next three days. Meanwhile, Konkan & Goa and Madhya Maharashtra should prepare for heavy to very heavy rainfall over the next 4-5 days. Southeast Rajasthan is expected to face heavy rainfall on July 21st.
Northwest India on High Alert
In Uttarakhand, isolated extremely heavy rainfall is forecasted on July 21st and 22nd, with very heavy rainfall expected in Himachal Pradesh on July 22nd and 23rd.
Current Weather Patterns
Recent observations from IMD highlight heavy to very heavy rainfall with extremely heavy falls in isolated areas over West Madhya Pradesh and Konkan & Goa. Significant rainfall has also been reported in Vidarbha, Chhattisgarh, East Madhya Pradesh, Madhya Maharashtra, Odisha, Saurashtra & Kutch, Telangana, Uttarakhand, and Coastal Karnataka.
Key Weather Systems
As of July 21st, the well-marked low-pressure area remains stationary over interior Odisha and adjoining Chhattisgarh. The Monsoon trough is active and expected to shift northwards. A shear zone is positioned along 20°N, tilting southwards, and an off-shore trough persists along the South Gujarat-north Kerala coasts. Cyclonic circulations are noted over the northeast Arabian Sea and northeast Rajasthan.
Forecast and Alerts
IMD’s latest forecast indicates widespread light to moderate rainfall across West, Central, East, and South Peninsular India over the next five days. Isolated extremely heavy rainfall is likely over specific regions on designated dates, necessitating caution and preparedness.
Impact and Actions Recommended
The IMD has warned of localized flooding, waterlogging in low-lying areas, and occasional reductions in visibility due to heavy rainfall. Traffic disruptions are expected in urban areas, along with potential damage to kutcha roads and vulnerable structures. Landslides and mudslides are also possible in hilly terrains.
Agromet Advisories
Farmers are advised to take precautions, including drainage of excess water from fields and postponement of certain agricultural activities in anticipation of heavy rainfall.
Flash Flood Risk
Low to moderate flash flood risks are predicted over several watersheds and neighborhoods in Coastal Karnataka, South Interior Karnataka, Konkan & Goa, Chhattisgarh, East Madhya Pradesh, Vidarbha, and Uttarakhand over the next 24 hours.
Conclusion
As the IMD continues to monitor the evolving weather situation, it urges residents and authorities in affected regions to stay updated with official advisories and take necessary precautions to mitigate potential risks associated with the ongoing monsoon dynamics.
