Amid scorching temperatures and a prolonged monsoon slowdown across several regions, the weather pattern is set for a dramatic shift. The Indian Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued a major alert for heavy rainfall, thunderstorms, hailstorms, and gusty winds over the next 12 to 15 hours in 11 states, including Delhi and Uttar Pradesh.

The IMD warned of the possibility of robust winds of 40-50 kmph prevailing along with the storms, which could lead to damage to property and loss of lives.

As per Meteorologists, the monsoon has remained stationary for the last two weeks and on account of that, dry winds and scorching heat persisted on the plains. However, with the arrival of moist wind from the Bay of Bengal accompanied by a fresh western disturbance, there has been a sudden change in the prevailing conditions over the northern and central part of the country.

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Alert issued for Key Regions

- North India: Delhi-NCR, Uttar Pradesh, Punjab, Haryana and Rajasthan.

- Central and Western India: Madhya Pradesh and Chhattisgarh.

- Eastern and hilly areas: Bihar, Jharkhand, Uttarakhand and Himachal Pradesh.

Thunderstorm and lightning

In these states, along with the rain, the IMD has predicted a risk of thunderstorms and lightning. Residents are being advised not to stand near high trees, signs, and power poles in storms. 

People in kutcha houses and slums are being requested to seek shelter at a safe place. Delhi and Lucknow airports may also see some disruption in their flights. 

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Increasing Concerns For Farmers

Due to the slow pace of the monsoon and the delay in rains, there is apprehension among the farmers of the country. By the first week of July of this month, while the monsoon is yet to hit the entire country, the farming sector is the first one facing the brunt. 

Delayed rainfall is creating difficulty in the planting and cultivation of major Kharif crops like paddy, sugarcane, green vegetables, etc. As they require the soil to be waterlogged.