The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued a fresh rain alert for several parts of the country, predicting light to moderate rainfall accompanied by thunderstorms, lightning, and gusty winds in various states. The active Western Disturbance and cyclonic circulations are expected to cause widespread rainfall across the Western Himalayan region, northern plains, East and Northeast India, as well as parts of the South.
According to the IMD, Jammu & Kashmir, Ladakh, Gilgit-Baltistan, Muzaffarabad, and Himachal Pradesh are likely to experience light to moderate rainfall at most locations from April 18 to 21. Isolated heavy rainfall is anticipated in these areas on April 18 and 19, with possible hailstorms and winds gusting up to 70 km/h, reaching speeds of 50–60 km/h.
Uttarakhand is also under alert for thunderstorms, gusty winds, and isolated hailstorms on April 19. Rain and lightning are expected over Punjab, Haryana, and Uttar Pradesh from April 18 to 20. The Delhi-NCR region may see very light rain, dust storms, and gusty winds between April 18 and 20, with temperatures slightly cooler, ranging from 36–39°C.
Odisha has already recorded significant rainfall in districts such as Mayurbhanj, Bhadrak, Balasore, and Kendrapara. Additional rain, along with thundersqualls (50–60 km/h), is expected on April 18 and 21. Gangetic West Bengal and northeast Jharkhand may also experience heavy showers today.
Northeast India is set for an extended period of rainfall. Assam, Meghalaya, Nagaland, Manipur, Mizoram, and Tripura will see scattered to widespread rain over the next five days, with heavy rainfall likely on April 18, 19, and again from April 21 to 24.
Southern states, including Kerala, Tamil Nadu, Andhra Pradesh, and Karnataka, may receive light to moderate rainfall, with thunderstorms and lightning over the next week.
Meanwhile, Rajasthan is under a severe heatwave warning for April 18, with temperatures expected to reach around 45°C, particularly in East and West Rajasthan. However, conditions are anticipated to improve starting April 20.
Residents in vulnerable and hilly areas are advised to stay indoors during thunderstorms and secure outdoor items. Farmers should take precautions to protect crops and livestock from hailstorms and excess water.
