New Delhi: With the onset of the pre-monsoon season, weather patterns across the country have undergone a complete transformation. In various parts of North India, late-night thunderstorms accompanied by drizzle led to a noticeable drop in temperature. Those sleeping on rooftops late at night felt a distinct chill in the air. Clouds continue to hover over many regions of North India, raising the spectre of rain in several locations.
Key Highlights
⚠️ Safety Guidelines — What To Do
During Thunderstorms & Lightning:
- 🏠 Stay indoors — avoid open fields and rooftops
- 🌳 Do not shelter under trees
- 📱 Unplug electrical appliances
- 🚗 Avoid driving during heavy downpours
- ⚡ Stay away from metal structures and water bodies
For Farmers:
- 🌾 Harvest ready crops immediately if possible
- 🐄 Move livestock to covered shelters
- 🚜 Secure farm equipment
For Travellers:
- 🏔️ Avoid hill travel in Uttarakhand & Himachal Pradesh
- 🛣️ Check road conditions before long journeys
- 📞 Save IMD helpline: 1800-180-1717
In some states, the rainfall has even shattered previous records. Weather experts have predicted a bumper monsoon season in 2026. The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued a warning for heavy rainfall extending up to May 4.
Heavy Rainfall Expected in Kerala
According to the Meteorological Department, the pre-monsoon season is expected to manifest in a distinct manner in the southern state of Kerala as well. Consequently, the department has issued an alert indicating that Kerala may experience a spell of heavy rainfall on May 1, 2, 3, and 4. The IMD has forecast strong winds blowing at speeds of 30–50 kilometres per hour. There is also a possibility of dust storms and thunderstorms in the region.
Weather Update for Uttarakhand
According to the IMD, a shift in weather conditions is anticipated in Uttarakhand. The Meteorological Department has issued an alert for heavy rainfall in Uttarakhand on May 1, 2, 3, and 4. During this period, warnings have also been issued regarding strong winds (40–50 km/h), dust storms, and thunderstorms. Given the potential risk of lightning strikes, people have been urged to exercise caution.
Warning for Heavy Rainfall in These States
According to the Meteorological Department, the pre-monsoon season is expected to unfold distinctly across several states nationwide. In light of this, the department has forecast heavy rainfall—accompanied by thunder and lightning—in Himachal Pradesh, Punjab, Haryana, and Rajasthan on May 1, 2, 3, and 4. Apart from these regions, heavy rainfall is also expected in the national capital, Delhi, as well as in Uttar Pradesh, Jammu & Kashmir, Ladakh, and Karnataka.
Rainfall to Cause Havoc Here Too
According to the Meteorological Department, an alert for heavy to very heavy rainfall has been issued for Tamil Nadu, Telangana, Andhra Pradesh, the Andaman & Nicobar Islands, and Lakshadweep. A warning for intense rainfall has also been issued for Puducherry, Mahe, Yanam, Rayalaseema, Karaikal, and Arunachal Pradesh. The IMD has indicated that spells of heavy rainfall are also likely to be recorded in Meghalaya, Assam, Tripura, Nagaland, Mizoram, Manipur, and Madhya Pradesh.
Heavy rainfall accompanied by thunder and lightning is anticipated in Bihar, Jharkhand, West Bengal, Odisha, Sikkim, Chhattisgarh, and the Vidarbha region. Winds with speeds ranging from 40 to 70 kilometres per hour are expected in these areas. Additionally, there is a possibility of dust storms accompanied by lightning strikes.
