Weather updates today are more than just temperature checks. Across India, sudden heatwaves, intense rainfall, thunderstorms, and localized flooding have made daily forecasts essential for planning travel, work, and outdoor activities.
The India Meteorological Department (IMD) issues daily forecasts along with color-coded alerts. However, many people see a Yellow or Orange alert and are unsure what action to take.
Here’s a clear and practical explanation of what today’s weather forecast means, how IMD alert colors work, and how you should prepare depending on your city.
What IMD Alert Colors Actually Mean
IMD uses four color codes to indicate the severity of weather conditions. Each alert level signals how serious the situation could become.
🟢 Green Alert – No Warning
• Normal weather conditions
• No significant disruption expected
• Daily activities can continue as usual
🟡 Yellow Alert – Be Aware
• Moderate rainfall, thunderstorms, gusty winds, or rising temperatures
• Localized disruption possible
• Stay updated with official bulletins
🟠 Orange Alert – Be Prepared
• Heavy to very heavy rainfall
• Heatwave conditions
• Strong winds or storm activity
• Possible traffic disruption and power cuts
🔴 Red Alert – Take Action
• Extremely severe weather expected
• High risk to life and property
• Follow local authority instructions immediately
Understanding these color codes helps you respond calmly instead of reacting to rumors or social media panic.
Heatwave Conditions: What the Numbers Mean
During summer months, several states experience heatwave alerts. A heatwave is declared when maximum temperatures cross defined thresholds for consecutive days.
For basic temperature comparison between units:
F=(C×9/5)+32F = (C \times 9/5) + 32
This formula converts Celsius to Fahrenheit and helps in comparing international weather reports.
When temperatures remain significantly above normal for multiple days, health risks increase.
What to prepare for during heatwave alerts:
• Drink water frequently
• Avoid stepping out between 12 PM and 4 PM
• Wear light cotton clothes
• Use sunscreen and protective headgear
• Check on elderly family members
• Avoid leaving children or pets inside parked vehicles
Heat-related illnesses such as dehydration and heatstroke can escalate quickly without precautions.
Heavy Rain and Flood Alerts: What to Expect
During monsoon or cyclonic systems, cities may receive intense rainfall within a short duration. This can lead to:
• Urban flooding
• Waterlogging in low-lying areas
• Traffic congestion
• Flight or train delays
When an Orange or Red alert is issued for rainfall:
• Avoid driving through flooded streets
• Keep emergency contact numbers handy
• Charge phones and power banks in advance
• Store essential medicines safely
• Secure loose outdoor items
Flooded roads are often deeper than they appear and can damage vehicles or cause accidents.
Thunderstorm and Lightning Warnings
Lightning alerts are frequently issued, especially during pre-monsoon months.
During thunderstorm warnings:
• Avoid open grounds
• Do not stand under isolated trees
• Stay indoors whenever possible
• Unplug sensitive electronic appliances
• Avoid using wired landline phones
Lightning strikes pose serious risks and should never be ignored.
How City-Wise Forecasts Differ
Weather forecasts are issued at multiple levels:
• State
• District
• Major cities
• Coastal regions
Conditions may vary even within the same state. For example:
• Coastal districts may receive heavy rainfall
• Interior regions may experience heatwave
• Hill areas may see thunderstorms
Always check district-level forecasts rather than relying only on general state headlines.
Why Weather Alerts Are Becoming More Frequent
Several factors contribute to increased weather warnings:
• Rising average temperatures
• Changing rainfall patterns
• Rapid urbanization
• Short-duration extreme rainfall events
Improved forecasting technology also allows earlier and more precise warnings.
Frequent alerts do not always indicate disasters — they are precautionary steps to reduce risk.
Travel Planning During Weather Alerts
Before traveling:
• Check flight and train status
• Monitor traffic advisories
• Avoid waterlogged underpasses
• Plan alternate routes
During Red alerts, authorities may temporarily close schools, offices, or highways depending on severity.
Postponing non-essential travel during severe warnings is always safer.
Emergency Household Checklist
Every household should maintain basic emergency preparedness:
• Flashlight with extra batteries
• Power bank
• First-aid kit
• Drinking water storage
• Important documents stored safely
Preparedness reduces panic and improves safety during sudden weather shifts.
Common Mistakes People Make
• Ignoring Yellow alerts
• Driving through flooded roads
• Sharing unverified weather messages
• Waiting until the last minute to prepare
• Assuming warnings are exaggerated
Weather systems can intensify rapidly, especially during monsoon season.
Final Advice: Stay Alert, Not Alarmed
Weather forecasts are designed to inform and protect. Following official IMD bulletins and preparing in advance ensures safety without unnecessary fear.
Make it a daily habit to check the weather forecast today before planning travel, events, or outdoor activities.
Small precautions today can prevent major inconvenience tomorrow.
FAQs
What does Yellow alert mean in weather forecast?
Yellow alert indicates moderate weather conditions. People should stay aware and monitor official updates.
What is the difference between Orange and Red alert?
Orange alert signals severe weather and preparation is needed. Red alert indicates extremely severe conditions requiring immediate action.
How accurate are IMD weather forecasts?
Short-term forecasts are generally reliable, but weather systems can change quickly due to atmospheric variations.
Can schools close during Red alert?
Local authorities decide closures based on district-level risk and severity of the warning.
How can I check official weather updates?
You can visit the official IMD website or follow verified government communication channels for accurate information.