Weather
The weather in Uttar Pradesh has taken a dramatic turn as the India Meteorological Department (IMD) issued a heavy rain alert for 14 districts in the state today. Following weeks of fluctuating temperatures and scattered showers, a strong monsoon system is now moving across northern India, bringing with it the threat of intense rainfall and thunderstorms.
According to the latest IMD update, several regions of eastern and central Uttar Pradesh are expected to experience heavy to very heavy rain, accompanied by gusty winds and lightning. Authorities have warned residents in affected areas to stay alert and take necessary precautions.
Districts on Alert
The 14 districts under heavy rain warning include:
- Lucknow
- Varanasi
- Gorakhpur
- Kanpur
- Ayodhya
- Prayagraj
- Basti
- Barabanki
- Sultanpur
- Jaunpur
- Rae Bareli
- Ambedkar Nagar
- Gonda
- Bahraich
In these districts, local administration and disaster management teams have been put on high alert. Schools in certain rural areas may remain closed depending on local rainfall intensity.
Possible Impacts
The IMD has classified the rainfall as “heavy to very heavy” in certain pockets. This could result in waterlogging in urban areas, especially in low-lying regions of cities like Lucknow, Kanpur, and Varanasi. Rural roads may become slippery and difficult to navigate, and flash floods cannot be ruled out in hilly and river-adjacent areas.
Farmers have also been advised to take preventive measures to protect standing crops, especially in regions where harvesting or sowing is currently underway. The wind speed during thunderstorms could damage small structures, electricity poles, and trees.
Precautions Advised
Authorities have urged citizens to follow these safety tips:
- Avoid unnecessary travel during peak rain hours.
- Stay away from flooded roads or drains.
- Do not take shelter under trees during lightning.
- Keep mobile phones and emergency lights charged.
- Stock essential supplies in areas prone to flooding.
In urban centers, municipal bodies have begun preparations to tackle the situation. Drainage systems are being cleared and emergency response teams are on standby.
What to Expect Ahead
Meteorologists say the current weather pattern is due to a low-pressure system forming over eastern Uttar Pradesh and adjoining Bihar. This system is drawing significant moisture from the Bay of Bengal, fueling widespread rainfall across the region.
The rain is likely to continue over the next 48 hours, with some areas receiving over 100 mm of rainfall in a day. However, a gradual reduction in intensity is expected by the weekend.
Conclusion
While the rains will bring much-needed relief from the summer heat and support agriculture, the risk of flooding and storm-related disruptions remains high. People living in the 14 alerted districts should remain vigilant, follow updates from the meteorological department, and cooperate with local authorities.
Stay tuned for further updates and advisories. For real-time weather alerts, visit the IMD’s official website or follow your local district administration’s communication channels.
