Severe Rainfall Alert in India: Heavy Rains Forecast Across Several States

India is currently under a severe rainfall alert, with the India Meteorological Department (IMD) forecasting heavy pre-monsoon downpours in many regions. Heavy showers and thunderstorms are expected in the South and Northeast, while the Western coast and Central India also face intense rain. This early surge in rainfall has already caused flooding in parts of Assam and Jammu & Kashmir, prompting officials to warn citizens and activate emergency measures. In this report, we break down the latest IMD alerts, the high-alert regions, impacts on transport, schools and farming, precautionary advisories, and the weather outlook for the next week. We also explain the monsoon-related weather patterns behind these rains.

IMD Weather Alerts and Updates

The India Meteorological Department has issued heavy rainfall warnings for many parts of the country through late May. According to an ANI report, the IMD has warned of heavy to very heavy rainfall along the west coast (Karnataka, Konkan, Goa, Kerala) and over Northeast India and the Sub-Himalayan region from May 18–24, 2025. The IMD bulletin notes “heavy to very heavy rainfall, accompanied by thunderstorms and lightning,” over these regions. In addition, isolated heavy rainfall is expected in Tamil Nadu, Andhra Pradesh, interior Karnataka, and other states during various short periods.

The national news media reports highlight this broad pattern. For example, The Economic Times (via ANI) states that intense showers and lightning are likely along the entire west coast (Karnataka, Konkan, Goa, Kerala) as well as in parts of Maharashtra. It adds that widespread rain is also predicted over Assam, Meghalaya and Sikkim, with gusty winds of 30–50 km/h. Similarly, The Times of India reports that from May 18–24 IMD forecasts heavy rainfall and thunderstorms in southern and northeastern states. In short, multiple IMD bulletins and news reports confirm a nationwide alert for unusually heavy pre-monsoon rains.

This year’s early rain outbreak is driven by developing low-pressure systems. The NDTV weather office notes that a low-pressure area over the east-central Arabian Sea (off the south Konkan coast) is strengthening. This system is set to intensify and unleash torrential showers on the Konkan coast and beyond. According to NDTV, the entire Konkan coastline (Maharashtra and Goa) is under at least an orange alert, with red alerts for very heavy rain in Raigad and Ratnagiri (south coastal Maharashtra). Fishermen along Maharashtra and Gujarat coasts have been warned to avoid the sea due to rough conditions.

According to NDTV, a “red alert” (indicating extremely heavy rain) is in force for Goa and the coastal Maharashtra districts of Raigad and Ratnagiri. An orange alert (heavy to very heavy rain) covers Mumbai, Thane, Palghar and Sindhudurg in Maharashtra as well as hilly areas of Pune and Satara. This warning is linked to the approaching low-pressure system over the Arabian Sea. Similarly, the IMD’s own forecast (May 22 bulletin) explicitly states: “Heavy to very heavy rainfall likely to continue over west coast (Gujarat, Konkan & Goa, Karnataka and Kerala) during next 7 days…”.

Lightning strikes over Mumbai’s Chhatrapati Shivaji Terminus amid pre-monsoon storms. Coastal Maharashtra and Goa have been placed on red/orange alert by the IMD due to expected extremely heavy rains. A low-pressure system developing in the Arabian Sea is drawing moisture into this region.

High-Alert Regions

Several states have been singled out for very heavy rains. Broadly, the west coast (Konkan, Goa, Karnataka, Kerala) and Northeast (Assam, Meghalaya) are on high alert. But other regions are also affected:

• Maharashtra & Goa: Heavy rain alert. A red alert is in effect for Goa and the coastal Maharashtra districts of Raigad and Ratnagiri. These areas can expect extreme rainfall, thunderstorms and gusty winds. Mumbai, Thane, Palghar and Sindhudurg are under orange alert (heavy rain). IMD emphasizes the risk of waterlogging and local flooding in these areas.
• Karnataka: Severe rainfall alert. Coastal Karnataka (including districts like Dakshina Kannada) is under a red alert for very heavy rain. South Interior Karnataka (e.g. Bengaluru region) has received heavy rains and will see continued downpours through May 26. Bengaluru has been particularly hit; recent heavy rains caused landslides and electrocutions, with at least three deaths reported in the metro area. The IMD has warned of more heavy to very heavy rain across coastal and interior Karnataka.
• Kerala: Red alert for multiple districts. Kerala is experiencing “relentless rainfall,” especially in northern districts like Kozhikode, Wayanad, Kannur and Kasaragod. The IMD has issued red alerts for those districts, warning of extremely heavy isolated rainfall. As a result, the Kerala government declared a holiday for all schools and colleges in those areas. Other parts of Kerala (e.g. Ernakulam, Malappuram) are under orange alert (heavy rain). The monsoon onset is imminent: IMD indicates conditions are becoming favorable for the southwest monsoon over Kerala within 2–3 days.
• Tamil Nadu: Heavy rain in parts of the state. While Kerala faces the brunt, Tamil Nadu’s southern and hill regions are also seeing waterlogging and floods. Local media report persistent downpours causing flooding in some districts. The IMD forecasts isolated heavy rain over Tamil Nadu (including Chennai-Puducherry region) from May 18–20. The festive city of Bengaluru (though in Karnataka) is mentioned as under orange alert, but adjacent Tamil Nadu districts like Nilgiris have recorded intense showers.
• Andhra Pradesh/Telangana: Thunderstorms and heavy rain alerts. Southern Andhra (coastal & Rayalaseema) has seen isolated heavy rain caused by a Bay of Bengal circulation. The IMD issued a yellow alert for Telangana (including Hyderabad), forecasting heavy rain, thunderstorms and gusty winds due to the developing Arabian Sea system. Hyderabad can expect light to moderate thundershowers through May 23.
• Assam & Northeast: Flood-level rain alert. Guwahati and other parts of Assam have already faced flooding. Notably, Guwahati saw severe flooding on May 20 after an overnight downpour, inundating areas like Zoo Road and Ganeshguri. The IMD expects heavy to very heavy rain across Assam, Meghalaya and Arunachal Pradesh in the next 2–3 days. Isolated heavy falls (even extremely heavy) are predicted. Meghalaya’s Shillong and parts of Nagaland and Tripura are also on alert for heavy showers.
• Odisha/Bengal: Monsoon trough activity. As the monsoon advances northward, eastern states are seeing early rain. IMD forecasts have included heavy rain for Sub-Himalayan West Bengal and Sikkim through this week. Isolated heavy showers may affect parts of Odisha soon.
• Jammu & Kashmir, Himachal, Uttarakhand: Uplands hit. Unseasonal pre-monsoon rains and even hail have struck North India. Himachal and Uttarakhand received hailstorms and heavy rain on May 23–24. In J&K, Ramban district saw flash floods (see below). Western Himalayas are prone to landslides during such downpours. Heatwave zones (like Rajasthan) are also seeing occasional dust storms amidst this pattern.

In summary, Maharashtra, Goa, Karnataka, Kerala, Assam, Meghalaya, Jammu & Kashmir and parts of the South (Kerala/Tamil Nadu) are currently on highest alert for heavy rain. According to the Times of India, multiple districts across Karnataka, Kerala, Tamil Nadu, Maharashtra and West Bengal are under red/orange warnings by the IMD.

Pre-monsoon downpour in Tamil Nadu’s Nilgiris (Western Ghats) lead to waterlogged roads. Kerala and Tamil Nadu are seeing waterlogging from relentless rain, even as the monsoon trough begins to shift northward.

Impact on Transport, Schools, and Agriculture

The heavy rains are already disrupting daily life in multiple ways:

• Transport: Severe traffic snarls and delays are being reported. In Delhi-NCR and other regions, sudden thunderstorms and rain have caused road flooding. For example, a powerful storm on May 21 in Delhi uprooted trees and flooded streets, forcing 50 flights at Delhi airport to be delayed or diverted. The Delhi Metro has warned of commuter delays due to debris on tracks after storms. In Jammu & Kashmir, traffic on the vital Jammu-Srinagar highway was halted after multiple landslides and flash floods in Ramban district. Fishermen along the Maharashtra coast have been ordered to suspend operations through May 27 due to rough seas. Rail and road routes in Assam and the Northeast are also affected: in some areas railway tracks are waterlogged.
• Schools and Public Services: Several state governments have preemptively closed schools. Kerala has declared holidays in the worst-hit districts. Andhra Pradesh and Karnataka have similarly announced school closures or online classes in flood-prone zones. The Times of India notes that all educational institutions in northern Kerala were closed due to flood-like conditions. Local authorities across affected states (Maharashtra, TN, etc.) are monitoring conditions to decide on further closures.
• Agriculture: While heavy rains can replenish soils for the upcoming monsoon crops, abrupt downpours can damage standing crops and orchards. Waterlogging is a concern for low-lying farms. In northeastern India, tea gardens and rice fields may face inundation. The unseasonal rains can also impact harvest readiness for some summer crops. Farmers are being advised to shelter livestock and salvage crops if possible. Authorities often recommend raising the bunds around fields and using sandbags in vulnerable areas.
• Power and Infrastructure: Outages and damage to infrastructure are reported. The Delhi hailstorm knocked out power to thousands of homes temporarily. In Himachal and Uttarakhand, local reports mention landslides burying roads. Urban drainage systems are under stress; cities like Bengaluru and Kochi have already seen flooded intersections. Utility companies are on alert for emergency repairs.

Overall, the erratic weather is straining transport, schooling and agriculture. Citizens should expect travel delays (road, air, rail), carry extra time for commutes, and prepare for short-term disruptions in their neighborhoods.

Precautions and Advisories

In light of the severe rainfall alerts, authorities and experts recommend:

• Stay Updated: Keep an eye on official IMD bulletins and local weather forecasts. Follow news reports and government advisories. (IMD’s official website and social media provide timely warnings.)
• Avoid Unnecessary Travel: Do not travel through flooded or landslide-prone areas. If heavy rain is forecast, postpone non-essential trips. Ensure your vehicles are in good condition (antifreeze, tires) and carry an umbrella or raincoat.
• Flood Safety: If you live in a low-lying or flood-prone area, be ready to move belongings to higher ground. Have emergency supplies (water, medicines, flashlight). Do not walk or drive through water-logged roads – even shallow floodwater can be dangerous. Keep an eye on rising water levels in drains and rivers.
• At Home: Clear roof gutters and storm drains to prevent waterlogging. Switch off electrical appliances if you smell gas or see water near electrical outlets. Keep drains clean to avoid backflow.
• Workplace and Schools: Educational institutions and offices in alert zones should have contingency plans. Some workplaces may adopt flexible hours. Parents should ensure children know safe routes home.
• For Farmers: Protect seedlings and livestock. Drain excess water from fields if possible. Harvest ripe crops in advance of heavy rains to avoid rot.
• Maritime Caution: As the IMD warns, fishing and small boats should stay ashore. The weather office specifically advised fishermen along the Gujarat and Maharashtra coasts to remain on land due to rough seas till May 27.
• During Storms: Stay indoors during thunderstorms. Avoid open fields, tall trees, and metal objects. If outdoors, a car is safer than an open-top area, but do not touch metal.
• Health Precautions: People prone to waterborne diseases should drink purified water. Stock basic medicines. Heatwave areas should still hydrate and protect from sun during sunny intervals.

The IMD and local governments are coordinating warnings. For example, the Ramban district administration (J&K) issued a notice advising “the public to stay alert and follow safety advisories” during the floods. Such official alerts and social media feeds (like local police or disaster management accounts) can offer real-time guidance.

According to the Times of India, residents “should be prepared for potential flooding, waterlogging and travel delays” in rain-affected regions. They also advise avoiding travel during peak rains and taking precautions in flood-prone areas. If a heatwave warning is also active (as in northern India), authorities emphasize hydration and avoiding outdoor exposure (but that is secondary to rain preparedness here).

Emergency Services & Flood Updates

Emergency responders and local administrations are active in many areas:

• Rescues and Evacuations: In Jammu & Kashmir’s Ramban district, flash floods triggered by heavy rain led to over 100 people being rescued by police and officials. Many villagers in Dharam Kund were trapped by a sudden flood, and dozens of houses were damaged. The district control room posted 24×7 emergency numbers and urged residents to “Stay informed, stay safe!”. In Assam, emergency services have been busy rescuing people from flooded roads in Guwahati after the severe May 20 storm.
• Traffic and Transport: Authorities have temporarily shut or controlled traffic on inundated roads. The Jammu-Srinagar National Highway remains closed at several points after landslides in Ramban. Police in Assam diverted traffic away from flooded areas on May 20.
• Flood Warnings: Both state and district disaster management agencies are issuing flood alerts. River levels are being monitored closely. District collectors have been alerting citizens through SMS or loudspeaker announcements where possible. In Maharashtra and Goa, municipal agencies have activated flood response teams ahead of the expected rains.
• Relief Camps: In anticipation of flooding and landslides, some local bodies have set up relief shelters. For example, Kerala has identified school buildings as potential shelters. The Army and National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) are on standby in particularly vulnerable regions (Himachal, J&K, Assam) in case people need evacuation assistance.
• Weather Updates: The IMD provides hourly updates, and media outlets relay them. For instance, the BBC reported on May 22 that India’s weather agency warned of “heavy to very heavy rainfall” along the western coast for the next 6–7 days. Such reporting keeps the public aware of the ongoing situation.

To sum up the emergency response: localized flash floods (like in Ramban) have been managed with timely rescues. The public is repeatedly urged to heed advisories. As the Ramban Deputy Commissioner (in J&K) tweeted, the district has activated a 24×7 control room for emergencies. Citizens should note any such helpline numbers in their area.

Regional Weather Update

• North India (Himalayan Belt & Plains) Parts of North India (Punjab, Haryana, Delhi, Rajasthan) remain mostly dry due to heat, but the hills are seeing pockets of rain. In Himachal Pradesh and Uttarakhand, isolated hailstorms and heavy showers were forecast for May 23–24. The heatwave persists in Rajasthan, but even there a few duststorms have been predicted. No major flood alerts have been issued for the plains; rather, advisories here are about heat safety. Delhi, which had been under a heatwave, saw a brief respite with thunderstorms on May 21, cooling the city to about 39°C.
  Advisory: People in North India should watch for sudden storms in the hills and continue heat precautions in plains. No water rescues or school closures were reported in North India as of now.
• East & Northeast India The northeast remains on flood alert. Assam (including Guwahati) and Meghalaya are under warnings for heavy rain. As noted, Guwahati flooded on May 20 after a night of torrential rain. The Brahmaputra river is rising, and the meteorological department forecasts more showers over Assam-Meghalaya till at least May 25. Arunachal Pradesh also saw heavy rain on May 21–22, raising landslide risk. West Bengal (especially northern districts) has been witnessing intermittent rain. Agencies are monitoring rivers like the Brahmaputra and Teesta for breach risks.
  Advisory: If you are in Assam or Meghalaya, stay away from swollen rivers and avoid crossing bridges during peak rains. Ferry services on flooded rivers have been suspended in some districts. The IMD’s Flood Forecasting is providing bulletins for northeast river basins.
• South India Southern India is bearing the brunt of the current rains. Coastal and interior Karnataka face very heavy rain alerts. The Nilgiris (Tamil Nadu) and Wayanad (Kerala) hill districts have seen intense cloudbursts. Agriculture fields in Karnataka and Kerala are waterlogged. Tamil Nadu’s plains (Chennai, Madurai regions) have also reported heavy downpours on May 22. The monsoon trough is shifting north, which means more rain may spread to other parts of South India soon.
  Advisory: Residents in southern hill districts should be cautious of landslides. Commuters should expect flooded roads; for instance, several Bengaluru roads were underwater after May 22 storms. Kerala’s government is on high alert – the state’s capital Thiruvananthapuram has stockpiled sandbags.
• West India Along the West coast (Konkan, Goa) the rain alert is highest. In central Maharashtra and Madhya Maharashtra (Pune, Satara), localised heavy showers may cause flooding in streams and roads. On May 22, Pune reported heavy rain, though no flooding yet. Gujarat’s southern coast might see some rain by weekend, but the main focus is south Konkan.
  Advisory: Travelers on the Mumbai-Goa highways should watch for flooded underpasses. Coastal areas have been told to secure loose items and prepare for potential power cuts during storms.

5–7 Day Forecast

Looking ahead, IMD’s extended forecast (May 22–April 4, 2025) and weather models suggest:

• Continuing Heavy Rains (May 23–27): The west coast will keep getting heavy to very heavy rainfall over Konkan-Goa and Karnataka up to May 27. Kerala and South Interior Karnataka will see continuing wet spells. Konkan & Goa could see extremely heavy rain around May 23–25. Assam, Meghalaya and Arunachal will have additional rain through May 25. Isolated hailstorms remain possible in Himachal/Uttarakhand until May 24.
• Monsoon Onset: The southwest monsoon is expected to arrive in Kerala any day now (late May). IMD notes that conditions have become favorable for monsoon onset over Kerala in the next 2–3 days. Once the monsoon sets in, rain will intensify over most of Kerala and gradually move north to Karnataka and Maharashtra by early June.
• Later Outlook (June 1–July): If the monsoon arrives early (late May), the first rains may spread over parts of Karnataka and Goa by early June. The peak of the monsoon (June-July) typically brings heavy rain to central and northern India, but those are beyond 7 days. For this week, hot and dry conditions will persist over Haryana, Punjab, Delhi and Rajasthan, possibly interspersed by thundershowers by end of May.

Citizens should keep monitoring the forecasts. IMD’s official 5-day predictions and local news channels (NDTV, Times of India weather pages) will update daily.

Climate Patterns Behind the Rains

These heavy pre-monsoon rains are linked to normal monsoon dynamics. India’s meteorological climate includes the monsoon trough (an elongated low-pressure band) and pre-monsoon cyclones. Currently, the monsoon trough is shifted south near the peninsular heat trough, drawing moist winds from the Arabian Sea. The developing low-pressure area near Konkan is a classic pre-monsoon feature. As NDTV explains, this Arabian Sea low is “likely to intensify and bring intense showers” across Maharashtra and adjoining areas. Such systems also help trigger the onset of the monsoon.

In essence, warm land heating in May creates instability. Moist air from the oceans converges and rises along the monsoon trough, generating heavy rainfall. Thunderstorms (with lightning and gusty winds) are common in this phase. The same pattern explains why southern India and the western coast get rain first – these areas are closest to the moisture source. The IMD’s bulletin on May 21 noted that widespread wet spells are expected as the monsoon advances, and indeed the low-pressure area is moving northwards.

Will the monsoon come early? Indicators suggest the southwest monsoon could be earlier than usual in Kerala this year. The BBC reported that IMD expects the monsoon winds to touch Kerala in late May. If that happens, Kerala and coastal Karnataka will see sustained rains by month-end, after which the rains will gradually cover central India.

In summary, the severe rainfall alerts are a foretaste of the approaching monsoon. The unusual heat in northern India right now (above 45°C in parts) contrasts with this rain in the south; this gradient helps drive the monsoon circulation.

Conclusion: Citizen Advisory

In this critical period, citizen vigilance is key. Authorities urge everyone to follow official advisories closely. Those in high-alert regions should prepare for possible flooding and travel disruptions. Simple steps – like moving valuables to higher places, avoiding unnecessary travel, and staying hydrated – can prevent emergencies.

For example, district officials in flood-hit Ramban (J&K) have set up 24×7 help lines and repeatedly told people to “stay alert and follow safety advisories”. Similar messages are broadcast in many states. Children, the elderly and outdoor workers should take extra care. Local police and disaster management Twitter accounts often post real-time warnings – consider following those.

In summary: India is experiencing heavy rains as part of the pre-monsoon weather system. According to NDTV and IMD reports, many coastal and northeastern states are under red/orange alerts. The key advice is: stay informed, stay prepared. Keep track of local forecasts, heed evacuation orders or school closures, and don’t let waterlogging catch you off-guard. By taking precautions now, citizens can minimize the impact of the severe rainfall alert on their lives.

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