Heavy Monsoon Alert: IMD Warns 14 States of Flood Risk After Scorching Heatwave - Check Here

While Karnataka and several southern states battle an intense heatwave, the India Meteorological Department has issued flood alerts for 14 states as heavy rainfall threatens to trigger flooding, landslides and widespread disruption in the coming days

Heavy rain after the heatwave

India is witnessing contrasting weather conditions as the El Niño effect is expected to reduce monsoon rainfall across many regions this year. While several districts in Karnataka, usually known for heavy monsoon showers, continue to experience scorching heat and dry weather, parts of Jammu and Kashmir have received rainfall. Meanwhile, the northeastern states are witnessing intense downpours, prompting the India Meteorological Department (IMD) to issue flood alerts for 14 states due to the risk of heavy rainfall, flash floods, waterlogging and landslides.

Alert from the Meteorological Department

The IMD has put 14 states on alert. It predicts heavy rainfall that could lead to a flood-like situation. The Southwest monsoon is currently active over the Eastern and Northeastern states, so they can expect heavy showers for the next seven days. The weather department warns that cloudburst-like events could cause sudden floods.

Which states will get rain?

Meghalaya and West Bengal are in the 'danger zone' according to the IMD's warning. The department says these two states could see widespread flooding from cloudburst-like conditions. Assam and Arunachal Pradesh are also on the list for heavy rain. Odisha, Jharkhand, and Bihar might also face floods as the rainfall gets more intense.

Fear of major disruption

Tripura will see heavy rain in some parts on July 15 and 16. Jammu and Kashmir, Himachal Pradesh, and Uttarakhand are also set to receive heavy showers. Following this, from July 17 to 19, parts of Uttar Pradesh will get heavy rainfall. The IMD says this sudden increase in rain could create a lot of chaos.

What's the story for Karnataka and South India?

The heatwave is likely to continue in Karnataka, Andhra Pradesh, Telangana, Tamil Nadu, and Kerala. Andhra Pradesh, in particular, will experience unpredictable weather—swinging between rain and intense heat. This could lead to a rise in infectious diseases.

Karnataka districts hit by scorching heat

Many districts in Karnataka are facing a serious lack of rain, leaving farmers in a tough spot. Sowing hasn't started, and people are praying for showers. While some districts like Dakshina Kannada, Udupi, Kodagu, and Chikkamagaluru got some rain in late June and early July, most areas are now completely dry under the scorching sun.