Weather update today: Heavy rainfall, thunderstorms forecast across India
What's the story
The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued a weather alert for heavy rainfall and thunderstorms in New Delhi, the eastern coast, and the northeast till early May. A "yellow" alert is currently in place for Delhi, with light rain and cloudy skies expected to continue till May 6. Winds are likely to reach speeds of 30-50km/h, with some areas experiencing gusts up to 70km/h during "thundersquall."
Weather shift
Very heavy rain expected in northeast, Sikkim and West Bengal
A strong Western Disturbance is expected to end the heatwave in North and Central India. This weather system will bring thunderstorms, strong winds, and cooling. Very heavy rain is likely in Assam, Meghalaya, Sikkim, and West Bengal. Arunachal Pradesh, Nagaland, Manipur, Mizoram, and Tripura are also expected to receive heavy rainfall.
State forecast
Thunderstorms likely in these states
Bihar, Jharkhand, and Odisha are likely to witness thunderstorms, lightning, and gusty winds. Kerala, Tamil Nadu, and Puducherry are also expected to receive heavy rainfall. Coastal Andhra Pradesh and Karnataka will see thunderstorms, but most of these states, along with Tamil Nadu, will remain hot and humid. Madhya Pradesh, Chhattisgarh, East Rajasthan, and Jammu & Kashmir will see thunderstorms with lightning and gusty winds.
Fishermen advisory
IMD warns of rough seas over Bay of Bengal
The IMD has also warned of rough seas and winds reaching up to 65km/h over the Bay of Bengal. This will impact the coasts of Odisha, West Bengal, and Andhra Pradesh. A fisherman's alert has been sounded. They are advised not to venture into the sea during this time due to safety concerns.