Monsoon set to return to Delhi, heavy rain forecast across Himalayan states
- Delhi-NCR likely to see monsoon revival early next week after a prolonged dry spell.
- Red alert issued for West Bengal and Sikkim; orange alert for Uttarakhand and Northeast.
- Puri faces waterlogging amid Rath Yatra as incessant rains batter the temple town.
Monsoon revival on the cards for Delhi-NCR
The monsoon is set to make a strong comeback over Delhi-National Capital Region early next week, bringing relief from the humid heat that has gripped the region. The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has indicated that the trough of low pressure is likely to shift northward, pulling moisture-laden winds back into the capital.
Several parts of the city have remained dry for the past few weeks, leading to a rise in temperatures and discomfort. The revival is expected to bring moderate to heavy spells of rain, with the possibility of thundershowers in some areas.
Red and orange alerts across Himalayan states
The weather office has issued a red alert for West Bengal and Sikkim, warning of extremely heavy rainfall over the next 48 hours. An orange alert has been sounded for Uttarakhand, Himachal Pradesh, and the northeastern states, where downpours could lead to flash floods and landslides.
Residents in these regions have been advised to remain cautious, especially those living in landslide-prone areas. River levels are expected to rise, and local administrations have been put on standby for possible evacuations.
Puri battered by rains amid Rath Yatra
In Odisha, the temple town of Puri has been experiencing incessant rains, coinciding with the annual Rath Yatra festival. Waterlogging has been reported in several low-lying areas, disrupting movement and causing inconvenience to devotees.
The Odisha government has deployed pumps to drain water from key routes. Despite the weather, the yatra continued, with authorities making alternate arrangements for the safety of pilgrims.
Humid heat to persist in parts of the country
While some regions brace for heavy showers, several states including Uttar Pradesh, Bihar, and parts of Madhya Pradesh will continue to swelter under humid heat. The IMD has said that temperatures in these areas are likely to remain above normal for the next few days.
No significant respite is expected until the monsoon current strengthens further and covers more of central and western India.
Officials have urged farmers in rain-fed areas to monitor advisories, as the expected downpour could impact sowing and harvesting schedules.
As the monsoon gears up for its next active phase, all eyes will be on Delhi-NCR to see if the revival brings enough rain to bridge the seasonal deficit.