IMD Warns of Intense Rainfall in Madhya Pradesh, Rajasthan, Gujarat, and Maharashtra
2024-08-26 12:40:26
IMD Alerts Madhya Pradesh, Rajasthan, Gujarat, and Maharashtra to Severe Rainfall
The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued warnings for intense rainfall and strong winds across several states, including Madhya Pradesh, Rajasthan, Gujarat, and Maharashtra. On August 26, 2024, the IMD reported that a depression over northwest Madhya Pradesh and adjoining east Rajasthan has intensified into a deep depression. This system is expected to bring heavy to extremely heavy rainfall to parts of these states, as well as to Gujarat, Goa, and Maharashtra, over the next two to three days.
As of 11:30 PM on August 25, the deep depression was centered approximately 70 km south-southeast of Chittorgarh, Rajasthan. It is forecasted to move west-southwest, impacting South Rajasthan and Gujarat, and is expected to reach Saurashtra, Kutch, and parts of Pakistan by August 29, according to an IMD update issued at 2 AM.
In addition, the IMD noted the presence of another low-pressure area over Bangladesh and adjoining Gangetic West Bengal. This system is likely to intensify and move toward Gangetic West Bengal, North Odisha, and Jharkhand in the next two days.
A red alert has been issued for West Madhya Pradesh on August 26, with expectations of heavy to extremely heavy rainfall. Similar weather conditions are forecasted for East and South Rajasthan, Gujarat, Saurashtra, and Kutch from August 26 to 29.
Regions including Konkan, Goa, Madhya Maharashtra, Odisha, Gangetic West Bengal, and Jharkhand are also expected to experience heavy to extremely heavy rainfall over the next two days.
The IMD has warned of strong winds reaching up to 50 kmph in Madhya Pradesh on August 26 and up to 60 kmph in South Rajasthan from August 26-27. In Gujarat, nearby Pakistan, North Maharashtra, and the northeast Arabian Sea, wind speeds could reach up to 55 kmph on August 26, increasing to 60 kmph on August 27 and 28.
Rough to very rough sea conditions are anticipated off the coasts of Gujarat, Pakistan, and North Maharashtra until August 30. Similar conditions are expected in the North Bay of Bengal on August 26.
The IMD has advised fisherfolk to avoid venturing into the Arabian Sea and Bay of Bengal, particularly around the coasts of Gujarat, Pakistan, and Maharashtra, until August 30. Small ships and exploration and production operators have been urged to monitor weather developments closely and take necessary precautions.
The public is advised to avoid areas prone to waterlogging and check for traffic advisories before traveling. Farmers in affected regions should ensure proper drainage in fields and provide support to crops, as per the IMD's recommendations.
The IMD also warned of potential localized flooding, road closures, and waterlogging, particularly in urban areas. There is an increased risk of landslides and damage to horticultural crops due to inundation in the affected regions.
