Monsoon Alert: IMD Issues Heavy Rain, Thunderstorm Warning for 16 States Today

The latest Monsoon Alert has brought major weather warnings for several parts of India as the India Meteorological Department (IMD) predicts heavy rainfall, thunderstorms, lightning and gusty winds in 16 states on May 22. While many regions continue to reel under an intense heatwave with temperatures crossing 45 degrees Celsius, several other states are expected to witness severe weather conditions accompanied by strong winds reaching speeds of up to 90 kmph.

Authorities have also cautioned farmers and residents about possible crop damage, waterlogging and travel disruptions due to the changing weather pattern. At the same time, health officials in heatwave-hit areas have urged people to avoid stepping outdoors during peak afternoon hours to prevent heatstroke and dehydration.

Rain and Thunderstorm Alert Issued for 16 States

According to the IMD, widespread rainfall activity is likely across northern, eastern and southern India. States expected to receive rain and thunderstorm activity include Uttar Pradesh, Bihar, Jharkhand, Uttarakhand, Himachal Pradesh, Jammu & Kashmir, West Bengal, Odisha, Assam and Kerala, among others.

Several regions may also experience lightning strikes and powerful winds blowing at speeds between 80 and 90 kmph, raising concerns over infrastructure damage and power disruptions.

Delhi Weather : Relief From Heat Likely This Evening

Residents of Delhi may finally get some respite from the scorching heat as light to moderate rainfall is expected later in the day. Thunderstorms, lightning and gusty winds are also likely to accompany the showers.

The maximum temperature in the national capital is expected to remain around 43 degrees Celsius, while the minimum temperature may settle near 31 degrees Celsius.

Uttar Pradesh Braces for Heavy Rain and Stormy Winds

The weather department has issued a rain and thunderstorm warning for both eastern and western parts of Uttar Pradesh. Several districts, including Gorakhpur, Prayagraj, Deoria, Varanasi, Agra and Mathura, are likely to witness heavy rainfall and strong winds reaching speeds of 50 to 60 kmph.

Residents have been advised to stay alert, especially during lightning activity and stormy weather conditions.

Bihar on High Alert for Thunderstorms and Squalls

Bihar is also expected to witness unstable weather conditions on May 22. The IMD has issued alerts for thunderstorms, rainfall and squalls across many districts in the state.

Heavy rain warnings have been issued for Gaya, Rohtas, Aurangabad, Kaimur, Araria, Darbhanga, Madhubani, Bhagalpur and Purnia. Authorities are closely monitoring the situation as sudden storms may impact normal life and agriculture.

Jammu & Kashmir May Witness Hailstorms

Several parts of Jammu & Kashmir are likely to experience rain along with thunder, lightning and hailstorm activity on Friday. The sudden weather shift could impact travel in hilly regions and vulnerable areas.

Uttarakhand Weather Update: Rain Forecast for Hill Districts

Rainfall and thunderstorms are expected in multiple districts of Uttarakhand, including Nainital, Bageshwar, Uttarkashi, Haridwar, Almora, Champawat and Rishikesh.

Tourists and locals visiting hill regions have been advised to remain cautious due to the possibility of slippery roads and reduced visibility during rainfall.

Himachal Pradesh Faces Heavy Rain and High-Speed Winds

In Himachal Pradesh, the IMD has predicted heavy rain and thunderstorms in districts such as Solan, Shimla, Kullu, Mandi, Kangra and Kinnaur.

Strong winds with speeds of up to 75 kmph are also expected in some areas, increasing the risk of falling trees and disruptions in transportation services.

South India Rain Alert: Cyclonic Circulation to Intensify Weather Activity

A fresh cyclonic circulation developing over South India is expected to intensify rainfall activity over the next 48 hours. The weather department has issued heavy rain alerts for the Andaman and Nicobar Islands, Lakshadweep, Rayalaseema, Coastal Andhra Pradesh and Kerala.

These regions may witness intense showers, thunderstorms and gusty winds, with authorities advising fishermen and coastal residents to stay updated on weather advisories.

Heatwave Continues in Several Parts of India

Even as many states prepare for heavy rain, several regions across the country continue to battle severe heatwave conditions. Day temperatures in some areas have already crossed the 45-degree Celsius mark, making daytime outdoor activity extremely challenging.

Health officials have urged people to stay hydrated, avoid direct sunlight and take precautions against heat-related illnesses.