IMD Forecasts Widespread Rainfall Across Several States as Monsoon Progress Gains Momentum; Heavy Showers, Strong Winds and Lightning Alerts Issued

The southwest monsoon is continuing its steady advance across northern and central India, bringing much-needed rainfall to several regions and offering relief from the scorching summer heat. The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has forecast another spell of light rain, thunderstorms and gusty winds for Delhi on Thursday, while issuing heavy rainfall alerts for multiple states across the country.

The weather department said atmospheric conditions remain highly favourable for the monsoon to progress further over the next two to three days, covering additional parts of Gujarat, Madhya Pradesh, Uttar Pradesh and Uttarakhand. The advancing monsoon is expected to support the ongoing kharif sowing season while improving water availability across agricultural regions.

Delhi to Witness Rain, Thunderstorms and Strong Winds

Residents of the national capital woke up to pleasant weather after light showers cooled the city on Wednesday. According to the IMD, Delhi is likely to experience another round of rain and thunderstorms during the afternoon or evening.

The forecast includes:

• Partly cloudy skies throughout the day.

• Light to very light rainfall.

• Thunderstorms accompanied by lightning.

• Surface wind speeds of 40–50 kmph.

• Gusts reaching 60 kmph during thunderstorm activity.

The maximum temperature is expected to remain between 38°C and 40°C, while the minimum temperature was recorded at 25.2°C.

Although temperatures remain above seasonal comfort levels, intermittent rain and strong winds are expected to provide temporary relief from the prevailing heat.

Southwest Monsoon Expands Further Across India

The IMD stated that conditions are favourable for the southwest monsoon to continue advancing across several northern and central states over the coming days.

During the next 48 to 72 hours, the monsoon is expected to cover:

• Additional parts of Gujarat.

• Large areas of Madhya Pradesh.

• Remaining regions of Chhattisgarh.

• Jharkhand.

• Bihar.

• More districts of Uttar Pradesh.

In the subsequent phase, the rain-bearing system is likely to extend into:

• Remaining parts of Gujarat.

• Additional regions of Madhya Pradesh.

• Larger portions of Uttar Pradesh.

• Parts of Uttarakhand.

The timely advancement of the monsoon is considered crucial for India's agriculture-driven economy, particularly during the ongoing kharif crop sowing season.

Heavy Rainfall Alert Issued for Several States

The weather department has warned of heavy rainfall at isolated places across multiple states on June 25, with localized flooding and waterlogging possible in vulnerable areas.

States under heavy rainfall alert include:

• Arunachal Pradesh.

• Assam and Meghalaya.

• Coastal Karnataka.

• Jharkhand.

• Konkan and Goa.

• Maharashtra.

• Nagaland.

• Manipur.

• Mizoram.

• Tripura.

• Odisha.

• Parts of West Bengal and Sikkim.

• Telangana.

Authorities have advised residents in flood-prone areas to remain vigilant, especially in low-lying urban locations where drainage systems could come under pressure during intense rainfall.

Thunderstorms and High-Speed Winds to Impact Multiple Regions

Apart from heavy rainfall, widespread thunderstorm activity is expected across several parts of the country.

The IMD has forecast wind speeds of 50–60 kmph, with gusts reaching 70 kmph, over:

• Bihar.

• Jharkhand.

• Maharashtra.

• Marathwada.

• Parts of Madhya Pradesh.

• Western Rajasthan.

Such conditions may result in:

• Temporary power disruptions.

• Falling tree branches.

• Damage to temporary structures.

• Reduced visibility for motorists.

• Localized traffic congestion.

Citizens have been advised to avoid open spaces during lightning activity and secure loose outdoor objects that may be affected by strong winds.

Dust Storms and Rough Sea Conditions Also Expected

Weather activity is not limited to rainfall alone.

The IMD has also predicted:

• Isolated dust storms over western Rajasthan.

• Strong surface winds across Karnataka.

• Squally weather conditions along:

  • Maharashtra-Goa coast.

  • Gulf of Mannar.

  • Comorin region.

  • Parts of the Bay of Bengal.

Fishermen have been advised to exercise caution and avoid venturing into rough sea conditions until weather improves.

Heat Wave Persists in Isolated Areas

Despite widespread rainfall across much of India, some inland regions are expected to continue experiencing heat wave conditions.

According to the IMD, isolated pockets of:

• Bihar.

• Madhya Pradesh.

• Uttar Pradesh.

may remain under heat wave conditions on June 25.

The weather office also indicated that:

• Northwest India is unlikely to witness any major change in maximum temperatures until June 25.

• Temperatures may increase by 2–3°C between June 26 and June 28.

• Central India could also experience a gradual rise in daytime temperatures during the same period.

This highlights the uneven distribution of weather patterns during the early phase of the monsoon.

Monsoon Holds the Key to India's Economy

The southwest monsoon plays a vital role in India's economic performance, contributing significantly to agricultural output and rural demand.

A normal and timely monsoon supports:

• Higher agricultural production.

• Improved kharif crop sowing.

• Better reservoir levels.

• Groundwater recharge.

• Increased rural consumption.

• Stable food inflation.

• Stronger rural incomes.

Nearly half of India's cultivated land remains dependent on monsoon rainfall, making seasonal precipitation a critical factor for the country's overall economic growth.

A healthy monsoon also benefits sectors such as fertilizers, tractors, agrochemicals, FMCG, irrigation equipment and rural-focused financial services.

Impact on Transportation and Daily Life

Weather experts expect localized disruptions in several cities due to heavy rain and thunderstorms.

Possible impacts include:

• Traffic congestion during peak hours.

• Waterlogging in low-lying areas.

• Flight delays due to poor visibility.

• Slower rail and road transport.

• Temporary interruptions to outdoor construction activities.

Commuters are advised to monitor local weather updates before travelling and plan accordingly.

What Farmers and Businesses Should Watch

The continued advance of the southwest monsoon will be closely monitored by farmers, policymakers and businesses over the coming weeks.

Key areas of focus include:

• Distribution of rainfall across major agricultural states.

• Progress of kharif sowing.

• Reservoir storage levels.

• Flood risks in vulnerable regions.

• Impact on food inflation.

• Rural consumption trends.

• Commodity prices.

A well-distributed monsoon could strengthen agricultural output and support India's broader economic momentum during the current financial year.

Outlook

The southwest monsoon is gathering pace, bringing widespread rainfall across large parts of India while gradually advancing towards the northern states. Delhi is expected to receive another spell of rain, thunderstorms and gusty winds, offering temporary relief from high temperatures. Meanwhile, several states remain on alert for heavy rainfall, lightning and strong winds.

With favourable conditions expected to persist over the next few days, the monsoon's progress is likely to support agricultural activity, improve water availability and strengthen rural economic prospects. However, residents in areas under weather warnings are advised to remain cautious and follow official advisories as localized disruptions from heavy rain and thunderstorms may continue.