IMD Issues Orange Alert For Delhi-NCR, Schools Shut Due To Heavy Rainfall In Uttarakhand

The month of September has witnessed heavy rainfall so far in Delhi-NCR. Till now, 10 out of the total 12 days have received rain. The non-stop spell of rain has served as a respite from the blistering heat and pulled down the overall mercury. Delhi’s maximum temperature was recorded three degrees below normal at 32.6°C, while the minimum temperature dipped three degrees below the season’s average to 23.0 °C.

Orange Alert Issued As Heavy Rain Expected In Delhi

The India Meteorological Department has issued an orange alert for heavy rainfall in Delhi and its nearby regions on September 12. The city is expected to witness strong winds, with gusts between 30 to 40 km/h. The monsoon trough runs very close to Delhi, which is responsible for the wet weather conditions. More rain is expected to continue throughout the day, creating the possibility of waterlogging and traffic disruptions in various parts of the city. IMD has also warned that although the Delhi residents will enjoy this cooler weather, they need to be prepared for disruptions in daily activities due to the rainfall.

Rain Expected To Ease After September 14

The Meteorological Department said that the continuous rain in Delhi-NCR may moderate after September 14. The rainfall will slowly decrease with the moving away of the trough of the monsoon. Dark clouds enveloped the city on Wednesday morning, lending it an eerie feel, as if it was night in the middle of the day. Residents are advised to take precautions till the weather improves, especially while traveling. Waterlogging may create problems in low-lying areas.

Heavy Rainfall Expected In Uttarakhand

The Met Department has forecast heavy to very heavy rainfall in districts such as Chamoli and Bageshwar. Heavy rain alert was issued by the IMD on September 12. Given this warning, due to rainfall, local authorities have ordered to keep all schools, including Anganwadi centres, closed in districts such as Chamoli and Bageshwar. The order has been passed for Class 12 students. The closure has come into effect for the safety of children as a precautionary measure.

Seven Districts Of Uttarakhand May Receive Very Heavy Rainfall

IMD has issued a forecast of above-average rainfall in seven districts of Uttarakhand, which also includes Dehradun, Pauri, Nainital, Bageshwar, and Haridwar. In view of this, the district heads have been directed to remain in readiness for any emergency. Also, the State Disaster Management Authority has issued instructions to make all necessary preparations for dealing with emergent conditions arising out of this situation.

This means the hills are at risk of facing landslides and flash floods due to heavy rains, while people in these districts are advised to remain alert and avoid unnecessary travels.

Snowfall in Badrinath And Kedarnath Peaks

Apart from the rain, high-altitude areas like Badrinath and Kedarnath have also received fresh snow. The two holy places of pilgrimage wore a thick layer of fresh snow on Tuesday morning as dark weather prevailing in the State persisted. Traveling in these areas is now becoming tougher with rain and snowfall together, and locals and tourists are being advised to stay alert.

Weather Warnings Extend To Other States

Not only Uttarakhand, but the other states also suffer from critical weather conditions. The Meteorological Department predicted a possibility of heavy to very heavy rainfall in parts of Uttar Pradesh, Madhya Pradesh, Rajasthan, and Haryana till September 15. Chandigarh and Himachal Pradesh will get substantial rainfall during the period.

The authorities in these states have gone on high alert with warnings about possible floods and waterlogging. IMD has requested the people living in these areas to remain alert and abide by advisories that may be issued by the local administration.

Although the weather is forecast to improve after September 14, the authorities in all affected areas have called for continued caution and updated residents on the latest weather warnings.