The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued a weather alert for 17 states, warning of heavy rainfall, thunderstorms, lightning and strong winds as the southwest monsoon continues to strengthen across the country.
According to the IMD, wind speeds of 80 to 85 kmph are likely in parts of Gujarat, Maharashtra, Delhi and Uttar Pradesh. People have been advised to avoid unnecessary travel, remain indoors during severe weather and follow official weather advisories.
The department said heavy rainfall is expected in several regions, including Maharashtra, Gujarat, Bihar, West Bengal and the hill states. A red alert remains in force for Mumbai and Palghar due to the possibility of extremely heavy rainfall. Hilly areas may also face the risk of landslides, while parts of eastern India could experience the effects of cyclonic weather conditions.
The IMD said multiple weather systems are currently active across the country. A monsoon trough extends from Rajasthan to Bihar, while a cyclonic circulation has developed over the Bay of Bengal. Additional cyclonic circulations are active over Gujarat, Haryana and Lakshadweep, and a Western Disturbance is influencing weather over Uttar Pradesh.
These systems are expected to help the southwest monsoon advance further into Gujarat, Madhya Pradesh, Bihar, Jharkhand and more parts of Uttar Pradesh over the coming days.
Farmers have been advised to take steps to protect standing crops from damage caused by strong winds. The IMD has also urged people to stay indoors during thunderstorms, avoid taking shelter under trees or in open fields during lightning, and continue monitoring official weather updates until conditions improve.