Monsoon on the move: Heavy rain likely in North, South and Central India Saturday
The southwest monsoon continues its steady advance across India, bringing heavy rains to the south. Northern regions brace for gusty winds and thunderstorms this Saturday, June 6.
As the southwest monsoon continues its steady march across the Indian landscape, the weather remains the primary focus for millions as persistent rains bring relief to regions that have endured a scorching summer.
With the system having arrived in Kerala on Thursday, June 4, the India Meteorological Department (IMD) reports that the monsoon is now actively extending its reach, with widespread showers already reported across parts of southern and coastal India.
MONSOON PROGRESS AND AREAS AT RISK
As of Friday, June 5, the monsoon has advanced further into parts of Karnataka, Tamil Nadu, and Goa.
This weather system is pushing northwards, maintaining active rainfall patterns in the southern peninsula.
The IMD has issued a strong warning for heavy to very heavy rainfall across Kerala, Karnataka, and Tamil Nadu as the system intensifies.
Isolated spots in Kerala may see extremely heavy rainfall on Saturday, June 6 and Sunday, June 7, which could lead to waterlogging in low-lying urban areas.
Residents in these regions are advised to keep a close watch on local weather alerts for this Saturday as the intensity of the downpour increases.
THUNDERSTORMS AND GUSTY WINDS IN NORTH INDIA
While the south remains under the influence of the monsoon, north and central India are battling the typical, albeit violent, pre-monsoon heat.
A series of weather systems, including a western disturbance, are causing active thunderstorms across the north.
A western disturbance is an extra-tropical storm originating in the Mediterranean region that brings sudden rain and temperature drops to the Himalayas and surrounding plains.
People in Delhi, Haryana, Punjab, and parts of Rajasthan should expect light to moderate rain accompanied by gusty winds reaching speeds of 40 to 60 kilometres per hour this Saturday.
These sudden, intense storms often bring lightning, which can be dangerous. It is best to avoid seeking shelter under trees and to stay indoors during these squalls.
TEMPERATURE TRENDS AND HEATWAVE WARNINGS
Despite the incoming rain, the country is not entirely free from the summer heat.
Northwest India will likely see a gradual rise in temperatures by three to five degrees Celsius after the current spell of storms passes.
Meanwhile, parts of Bihar and East Uttar Pradesh may face heatwave conditions in the coming days.
A heatwave is defined as a period of excessively hot weather which may be accompanied by high humidity.
With daytime temperatures often staying between 34 and 39 degrees Celsius, it is vital to stay hydrated by drinking water and traditional cooling beverages like buttermilk.
The IMD monitors these shifts around the clock to provide updates that help farmers and city dwellers alike.
Stay tuned to official bulletins for your specific district to ensure you are prepared for whatever the clouds bring next.