IMD Warnings: Your Quick Guide to the Latest Weather Alerts

Seeing a storm warning on your phone and wondering what it really means? You’re not alone. The India Meteorological Department (IMD) issues alerts that can affect travel, work, and daily chores. This page breaks down the most recent IMD warnings, explains the alert levels, and gives you straight‑forward advice to handle the weather safely.

What Do IMD Alert Levels Mean?

IMD uses three main colors: yellow, orange, and red. Yellow means watch‑out conditions – light rain or gusts that might cause minor inconvenience. Orange steps it up: expect moderate to heavy rain, possible flooding, and traffic snarls. Red is the most serious – heavy rain, strong winds, and landslides are likely, and authorities may restrict movement.

Each alert comes with a time frame, usually covering the next 24‑48 hours. The department also notes the affected districts, so you can check if your area is listed. Keep an eye on local news or the IMD website for any updates, as alerts can shift quickly.

Recent IMD Alerts You Should Know About

Here’s a snapshot of the most talked‑about warnings from the past week:

Delhi‑NCR Orange Alert (July 31‑August 1): Heavy showers and thunderstorms were forecast, dropping temperatures to the low‑20s°C. Traffic jams and waterlogging were reported on major roads. If you’re planning to commute, leave early, carry an umbrella, and consider alternate routes.

Kolkata Depression (Early September): A low‑pressure system over the Bay of Bengal pushed continuous rain on the city. Waterlogged streets and delayed trains were the norm. Residents were advised to keep drains clear and avoid low‑lying areas.

Uttar Pradesh Orange Alert (Mid‑August): Fifteen districts faced intense monsoon bursts, with Lucknow on a yellow alert. Rainfall surpassed 300 mm in some places, raising flood concerns. Farmers were told to protect crops, and commuters were urged to use public transport where possible.

IPL 2025 Opener (May 22): The match between KKR and RCB at Eden Gardens was under an orange alert. Thunderstorms, lightning, and even hail were possible, but the game went ahead with a rain‑delay contingency. Sports fans learned to check live updates before heading to the stadium.

Each of these cases follows a pattern: heavy rain brings traffic chaos, waterlogging, and sometimes power cuts. Knowing the alert level helps you plan ahead.

Besides these big cities, smaller towns in Bihar, Maharashtra, and the Himalayan region also received alerts for lightning and localized flooding. If you live in a hill area, watch for sudden downpours that can turn roads slippery.

So, what can you do right now? First, check the IMIMD alert list for your district. Second, keep a basic emergency kit – water bottle, flash‑light, power bank, and a sturdy pair of shoes. Third, share the info with friends and family who might not follow the news closely.

When the alert is orange, consider postponing non‑essential travel. If you must go out, drive slowly, avoid standing water, and stay alert for sudden gusts. For red alerts, stay indoors unless it’s an emergency. Follow any instructions from local authorities, especially regarding road closures or evacuation orders.

Remember, IMD warnings are meant to protect you. Treat them as a heads‑up rather than a scare. By staying informed and taking simple precautions, you can keep yourself and your loved ones safe during India’s intense monsoon season.