Monsoon Forecast: Heavy Rain, Hailstorms Expected in 16 States Over Next 12 Hours—IMD Issues High Alert

April 16, 2025 . Weather Bureau, New Delhi: The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued a high alert for heavy to very heavy rainfall, hailstorms, and strong winds across 16 states over the next 12 hours, as a powerful pre-monsoon system intensifies across various regions. Citizens are urged to stay cautious, especially in northern, eastern, and southern parts of the country.

North India Braces for Dust Storms and Thunderstorms

Several northern states including Punjab, Haryana, Rajasthan, Delhi, Chandigarh, and western Uttar Pradesh are expected to witness dust storms, light to moderate rain, thunder, and lightning between April 16 and 18. These weather changes are attributed to an active western disturbance moving through the region.

In the Delhi-NCR region, although temperatures will hover between 38°C and 41°C, no heatwave is predicted. Instead, intermittent thunderstorms are likely to bring temporary relief with minor dips in temperature throughout the week.

Eastern and Northeastern States on High Alert

The IMD has warned of intense rainfall and hailstorms in the eastern and northeastern states including:

• Odisha (Heavy rain, hail alert for April 16)

• Bihar, Assam, Meghalaya, Nagaland, Manipur, Mizoram, Tripura

• Jharkhand and West Bengal (Ganga belt) Stormy winds and rainfall on April 17

Winds in these regions may gust up to 50–60 km/h, with chances of localized flooding and agricultural damage, particularly in Odisha and Assam.

Thunderstorms and Lightning Across Central and Southern India

Rain and thunderstorms are also expected to lash Maharashtra, Chhattisgarh, and Vidarbha today, with strong winds accompanying the downpours.

In South India, the IMD predicts lightning, thunder, and rainfall for the next five days in:

• Tamil Nadu

• Andhra Pradesh

• Telangana

• Karnataka

• Kerala

Residents are advised to remain indoors during lightning storms and avoid travel during heavy rainfall episodes.

Western Himalayan Region to Witness Intense Activity

A strong western disturbance is expected to significantly impact Jammu and Kashmir, Ladakh, Himachal Pradesh, and Uttarakhand between April 16–20, with heavy precipitation anticipated on April 18 and 19. Travelers and tourists are advised to check local advisories due to possible road disruptions and landslides.

Key Safety Advisory:

• Avoid open fields and isolated trees during thunderstorms

• Secure outdoor items and structures from high winds

• Stay updated via IMD weather alerts and local administration advisories

• Farmers are urged to take protective measures for crops.