India Weather Today (August 13): A warning has been issued by the Indian Meteorological Department (IMD) for heavy rainfall, thunderstorms and winds in several areas of east, central, and north India, while an intensifying low-pressure zone in the Bay of Bengal moves towards the shore. According to the forecast, Chhattisgarh, West Bengal and Odisha are likely to experience extremely heavy rain, with isolated places experiencing heavy downpour today, August 13. An orange alert has been issued for Jharkhand, while other states are under the yellow alert. As per the weather predictions for the next few days, heavy to very heavy rainfall and thunderstorms are expected.
India Weather Today (August 13): Which states are facing the highest rainfall threat?
Gangetic West Bengal, Odisha and parts of Chhattisgarh are facing the highest rainfall threat, with isolated locations likely to record more than 204.5 mm of rain. The low-pressure system, which moved northwestwards towards the coastal areas of West Bengal and adjoining Bangladesh on Thursday, August 13, is expected to move towards the Gangetic plains of West Bengal and then Jharkhand. The system could intensify into a depression within the next 12 hours, increasing the possibility of widespread heavy to very heavy rainfall. Such conditions may cause waterlogging, flash flooding in vulnerable areas and disruption to road transport, while people living near rivers, streams, drainage channels and other flood-prone areas have been advised to remain extremely cautious.
Jharkhand under ‘Orange alert’
Jharkhand remains under an orange alert, with several parts of the state expected to receive 115.6 mm to 204.4 mm of rainfall. Persistent rain, combined with already saturated ground conditions, could increase the risk of localised flooding, waterlogging and disruption to normal activities. Residents in vulnerable and low-lying areas have been advised to avoid unnecessary travel, remain alert to rapidly changing weather conditions and follow safety instructions issued by local authorities.
Other regions likely to receive heavy rainfall
Heavy rainfall is also expected across several other regions, including the Andaman and Nicobar Islands, Arunachal Pradesh, Assam and Meghalaya, eastern Uttar Pradesh, Gujarat, Himachal Pradesh, Jammu and Kashmir, Ladakh, Kerala, Konkan and Goa, Madhya Maharashtra, parts of Rajasthan, South Interior Karnataka, Uttarakhand, Vidarbha and western Madhya Pradesh. These areas could receive rainfall ranging between 64.5 mm and 115.5 mm, with localised heavy showers possible during the forecast period.
How could thunderstorms, lightning and strong winds add to the risks?
The prevailing weather systems are also likely to trigger thunderstorms, lightning and strong winds across several areas, with wind speeds potentially reaching 40–50 kmph at some locations. Andhra Pradesh, Gangetic West Bengal, Interior Karnataka and Tamil Nadu-Puducherry may experience thunderstorms accompanied by strong winds. Lightning could pose an additional risk, particularly to people outdoors, and residents are advised to stay indoors and avoid open fields, isolated trees, electricity poles and other exposed locations during thunderstorms. Farmers should immediately suspend outdoor activities whenever lightning or thunderstorms are observed.
What’s Next for India amid Monsoon?
The monsoon trough remains active, extending through Bikaner, a low-pressure area near Madhya Pradesh, Sidhi, Jamshedpur and Kolkata, contributing to continued monsoon activity over central and eastern India. Meanwhile, an active western disturbance in the upper atmosphere is influencing parts of northern India, bringing cloud cover, rainfall and gusty winds. The interaction of these weather systems could result in rapidly changing weather conditions across several parts of the country over the coming days.
What Do the IMD’s Red and Orange Alerts Mean?
A Red Alert is the highest level of weather warning issued by the IMD. It indicates extremely severe weather conditions that could pose a significant threat to life and property. Residents are advised to take immediate precautions, avoid unnecessary travel and follow instructions issued by local authorities. Meanwhile, an Orange Alert signifies that people should “Be Prepared.” It warns of severe weather that may disrupt transport, power supply and daily activities. Citizens should remain vigilant and monitor official weather updates as conditions may worsen.
India Weather Today (August 13): Advisory for Residents
- The IMD has urged people to exercise caution during the spell of heavy rain. Residents are advised to:
- Avoid unnecessary travel during heavy rainfall and thunderstorms.
- Stay away from waterlogged roads, underpasses and low-lying areas.
- Do not take shelter under trees or near electric poles during lightning.
- Secure loose objects on balconies and rooftops due to strong winds.
- Drive carefully, maintaining a safe distance from other vehicles.
- Keep track of official IMD forecasts and advisories for real-time updates.
Disclaimer: This article is based on weather information and forecasts provided in the referenced bulletin. Weather conditions can change rapidly, and rainfall intensity may vary significantly from one location to another. Readers are advised to rely on the latest updates, warnings and advisories issued by the India Meteorological Department and local authorities for real-time weather information and safety instructions.
