The India Meteorological Department (IMD) issued an alert on Monday predicting heavy to extremely heavy rainfall over the next 2-3 days across Madhya Pradesh, Rajasthan, Gujarat, Maharashtra, and Goa.
A depression over northwest Madhya Pradesh and eastern Rajasthan has intensified, prompting the IMD to issue a red alert for August 26. The same weather conditions are expected to affect eastern and southern Rajasthan, Gujarat, Saurashtra, and Kutch between August 26 and 29.
As of 11:30 pm on August 25, the deep depression was centered 70 kilometers southeast of Chittorgarh, Rajasthan. The system is likely to move west-southwest, impacting South Rajasthan, Gujarat, and extending to Saurashtra, Kutch, and parts of Pakistan by August 29, according to a 2 am update from the IMD. Additionally, a low-pressure area over Bangladesh and Gangetic West Bengal is expected to intensify and move towards West Bengal, north Odisha, and Jharkhand over the next two days.
The IMD has forecast heavy to extremely heavy rainfall for Konkan, Goa, Madhya Maharashtra, Odisha, Gangetic West Bengal, and Jharkhand during the next 48 hours.
Strong winds are expected, with speeds up to 50 kmph in Madhya Pradesh on August 26 and up to 60 kmph in south Rajasthan on August 26-27. Gujarat, north Maharashtra, and the northeast Arabian Sea could experience winds up to 55 kmph on August 26, increasing to 60 kmph on August 27 and 28.
Rough sea conditions are anticipated along the Gujarat, Pakistan, and north Maharashtra coasts until August 30, while the north Bay of Bengal may also see turbulent waters on August 26.
Fishermen have been advised to avoid the Arabian Sea and Bay of Bengal, particularly around the Gujarat, Pakistan, and Maharashtra coasts, until August 30. Small vessels are urged to remain cautious and monitor weather updates closely.
The IMD has advised the public to steer clear of waterlogged areas and check traffic alerts before traveling. Farmers in affected regions are encouraged to ensure proper field drainage and take measures to protect crops from damage.
The weather department also warned of possible localized flooding, road blockages, and waterlogging, particularly in urban regions. Landslides and damage to horticultural crops due to heavy rains are also potential risks in these areas.
