IMD Issues Double Weather Alert: Heavy Rain, Thunderstorms and Severe Heatwave to Hit Multiple States
- bySagar
- 24 May, 2026
The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued a major weather warning for several parts of the country, predicting a dangerous mix of severe thunderstorms, heavy rainfall, powerful dust storms, and extreme heatwave conditions on May 24. According to the latest night bulletin released by the weather department, more than 14 states could witness intense weather activity over the next 24 hours.
While northeastern and southern states are expected to receive heavy to extremely heavy rainfall, large parts of northern and central India continue to battle severe heatwave conditions. Meteorologists say rapidly changing atmospheric systems, active western disturbances, and the advancing southwest monsoon are driving this unstable weather pattern across the country.
Dangerous 50-60 kmph Thundersquall Warning Issued
IMD has warned that several regions could experience powerful thundersqualls and dust storms with wind speeds reaching 50 to 60 kilometers per hour. According to the department, the most severe storm activity is likely in:
- Jharkhand
- Coastal Andhra Pradesh
- North Interior Karnataka
These areas may witness intense thunderstorms, lightning strikes, and strong winds capable of causing disruptions to transport, electricity supply, and outdoor activities.
Heavy Rain Alert for Northeastern and Southern States
The weather department has issued extremely heavy rainfall warnings for several northeastern states.
States Under Heavy Rainfall Alert
- Assam
- Meghalaya
- Arunachal Pradesh
- Nagaland
- Manipur
- Mizoram
- Tripura
Heavy rainfall is also expected in:
- Kerala
- Tamil Nadu
- West Bengal
- Lakshadweep
- Andaman and Nicobar Islands
Meteorologists warn that localized flooding, waterlogging, and traffic disruptions may occur in some regions receiving intense rainfall.
Thunderstorm Alert Across Multiple States
Apart from heavy rain, IMD has also issued thunderstorm warnings with lightning and strong winds for several regions.
Areas Likely to Witness Thunderstorms
- Bihar
- Odisha
- West Bengal
- Western Uttar Pradesh
- Telangana
- Goa
- Maharashtra
- Jammu and Kashmir
- Ladakh
Wind speeds in some areas may range between 40 and 50 kilometers per hour.
Severe Heatwave Continues in North and Central India
Even as several states brace for rain and storms, northern and central India continue to remain under intense heatwave conditions.
The IMD has warned that temperatures in northwest India could rise by another 2 to 4 degrees Celsius.
Severe Heatwave Alert Issued For
- Delhi
- Haryana
- Chandigarh
- Punjab
- Eastern Uttar Pradesh
- Western Rajasthan
- Eastern Madhya Pradesh
- Vidarbha region of Maharashtra
Several other states including Chhattisgarh, Odisha, Telangana, Bihar, and parts of Madhya Pradesh are also expected to experience strong heatwave conditions.
Humid Conditions and Warm Nights to Trouble Residents
Meteorologists have also warned of extremely humid weather conditions in:
- Coastal Andhra Pradesh
- Gangetic West Bengal
- Odisha
At the same time, states like Uttar Pradesh, Telangana, and Vidarbha may witness unusually warm nights, where temperatures remain significantly above normal even after sunset.
Southwest Monsoon Advancing Rapidly
IMD stated that the southwest monsoon is progressing quickly and has already advanced into parts of the Arabian Sea and Bay of Bengal. Weather conditions are currently favorable for further advancement over the next few days.
The department also noted the presence of:
- An active western disturbance near Jammu
- Multiple trough lines extending across northern and eastern India
These systems are contributing to widespread atmospheric instability.
Fishermen Warned Against Venturing Into the Sea
Strong wind warnings have also been issued for coastal and marine regions.
Wind speeds between 40 and 65 kmph are expected near:
- Kerala-Karnataka coast
- Lakshadweep region
- Gulf of Mannar
- Southern Bay of Bengal
- Southwest Bay of Bengal
- Somalia coast
The weather department has strongly advised fishermen not to venture into the sea until conditions improve.
Authorities Advise People to Stay Alert
Experts recommend that residents in affected regions:
- Avoid unnecessary travel during storms
- Stay indoors during lightning activity
- Remain hydrated during heatwave conditions
- Monitor official weather alerts regularly
- Avoid coastal activities during high-wind warnings
With multiple extreme weather conditions occurring simultaneously across India, authorities are urging citizens to stay cautious and follow official advisories closely over the coming days.





