IMD issued heavy rainfall alert in 15 states for next 48 hours
While this is "pre-monsoon" activity rather than the main monsoon, it is bringing significant rainfall, thunderstorms, and high-speed winds to over 15 states.
IMD Issued heavy rainfall alert: The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has indeed issued a widespread weather alert for today, March 23, 2026, and the coming 48 hours. While this is “pre-monsoon” activity rather than the main monsoon, it is bringing significant rainfall, thunderstorms, and high-speed winds to over 15 states.
High Alert Regions (Heavy Rain & Strong Winds):
Northeast India: This region is seeing the most intense activity. Assam, Meghalaya, and Arunachal Pradesh are under a heavy rainfall alert for March 24. Winds in these areas could reach up to 50 km/h, with a risk of localized flooding and landslides in hilly terrain.
East India: Sub-Himalayan West Bengal and Sikkim are on alert for hailstorms and lightning today and tomorrow. Gangetic West Bengal could see particularly fierce winds reaching up to 80 km/h.
Northwest India: A Western Disturbance is bringing isolated light to moderate rain and snowfall to the higher reaches of Himachal Pradesh and Uttarakhand today.
Thunderstorm & Lightning Warnings:
Thunderstorms accompanied by gusty winds (30–40 km/h) are expected in the following areas:
Central & West: Chhattisgarh, Madhya Maharashtra, Marathwada, and East Rajasthan.
South: Coastal Andhra Pradesh, Rayalaseema, and parts of Telangana.
North: Isolated pockets of Punjab, Haryana, and Delhi-NCR (where light morning drizzles have already been reported today).
Weather Summary by Region:
Northeast – Heavy Rain & Widespread Thunderstorms (Assam, Meghalaya, Manipur, Mizoram)
North – Snow/Rain (Highlands) & Temperature Rise (Plains) (HP, Uttarakhand, Delhi, Punjab)
East – Hailstorms & Very High Winds (70-80 kmph) (West Bengal, Sikkim, Odisha, Bihar)
South/Central – Scattered Thunderstorms & Lightning (Andhra Pradesh, Maharashtra, Chhattisgarh)
Safety Advisory:
The IMD has advised farmers in the Northeast and East to secure harvested crops and improve drainage to prevent damage from hailstorms and heavy rain. Avoid taking shelter under trees or near electricity poles during thunderstorms.
Secure loose outdoor objects, as winds in the East could be damagingly strong. Be aware of potential traffic disruptions in Delhi-NCR and waterlogging in urban parts of the Northeast.
