Heavy Rainfall Alert: IMD Warns of Flash Floods and Traffic Disruptions

A depression over central India is projected to cause heavy to extremely heavy rainfall across various states including Uttarakhand, Delhi, and Uttar Pradesh over the next few days. The IMD has issued warnings for potential flash floods and significant traffic disruptions, particularly in low-lying urban areas.

A depression originating over central India is expected to bring heavy to extremely heavy rainfall across Uttarakhand, Delhi, and parts of Uttar Pradesh, Rajasthan, and Madhya Pradesh over the next two to three days, the India Meteorological Department (IMD) announced on Thursday.

Located near Gwalior as of 8:50 am, the system is moving north-northeast and is forecast to continue in this direction over the next 24 hours. Uttarakhand will see light to moderate rainfall from September 12-14, with isolated heavy rainfall in some areas.

Haryana and Delhi will experience light to moderate rain, sometimes heavy, from September 12-15. East and west Uttar Pradesh, and areas of Madhya Pradesh, are also preparing for heavy to extremely heavy rainfall during this period. West Rajasthan is forecast for heavy rainfall on September 12, while east Rajasthan will see heavy to very heavy rainfall on September 12 and 13.

Rainfall between 64.5mm and 115.5mm is categorized as 'heavy'; 115.6mm to 204.4mm as 'very heavy'; and above 204.5mm as 'extremely heavy'. Winds gusting up to 55 kmph are expected in north Madhya Pradesh, west Uttar Pradesh, Haryana, and Delhi over the next 24 hours.

Moderate to high flash flood risks have been issued for several regions, especially in west Uttar Pradesh and both east and west Madhya Pradesh. The heavy rainfall also risks flooding low-lying areas, urban road closures, traffic disruptions, and reduced visibility. Minor damage to unpaved roads, vulnerable structures, landslides, and crop damage are potential impacts, according to the IMD.

(With inputs from agencies.)