Heavy Rainfall Alert in 17 states for next 48 hours
Heavy rain, thunderstorms, and potential hailstorms. Delhi-NCR, Punjab, Haryana, Rajasthan, Uttar Pradesh, and Uttarakhand.
Heavy Rainfall Alert: The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued a significant weather alert for March 30 and March 31, 2026. Heavy Rainfall Alert in 17 states for next 48 hours.
A “wet spell” caused by an active Western Disturbance is expected to bring thunderstorms, rain, and hailstorms to approximately 17 states across Northwest, Central, and Northeast India.
While news headlines refer to this as a “Monsoon Update,” it is technically a pre-monsoon weather event, as the official Southwest Monsoon typically arrives in June.
Major Weather Alerts (March 30–31):
Northwest India: Heavy rain, thunderstorms, and potential hailstorms. Delhi-NCR, Punjab, Haryana, Rajasthan, Uttar Pradesh, and Uttarakhand.
Himalayan Region: Heavy rain and snowfall. Jammu & Kashmir, Himachal Pradesh, and Ladakh.
Northeast India: Widespread light to moderate rain. Arunachal Pradesh, Assam, Meghalaya, Nagaland, and Manipur.
Central & South: Isolated thunderstorms and lightning. Madhya Pradesh, Vidarbha, Chhattisgarh, and parts of Karnataka.
Specific State-wise Forecast:
Karnataka: Thunderstorms, lightning, and gusty winds are expected across North Interior, South Interior, and Coastal Karnataka until April 2. In Telangana, 13 districts have also been placed under a thunderstorm alert.
Uttar Pradesh & Delhi: A rain warning has been issued for major hubs including Lucknow, Kanpur, and Delhi-NCR. Winds are expected to reach speeds of 30–50 km/h.
Western Himalayas: Kashmir Valley is on alert for isolated heavy rainfall/snowfall today, March 30.
Bihar & West Bengal: A thundersquall with wind speeds up to 70 km/h is likely on March 31.
Temperature Impact:
The IMD predicts a gradual fall in maximum temperatures by 2–4°C over Northwest India and Uttar Pradesh through March 31, providing temporary relief from the early summer heat. However, temperatures are expected to rise again starting April 1.
Safety Precautions:
For Farmers: Protect harvested crops from moisture and hailstorms.
For Travelers: Expect potential disruptions in the hilly regions due to sudden rain or snow.
Lightning Safety: Stay indoors during thunderstorms and avoid standing under tall trees or near metal objects.
