Monsoon Intensifies Across India: IMD Issues Multiple Alerts, Delhi Under ‘Yellow’ Alert for May 30–31
NEW DELHI: India is witnessing an early and intense onset of the southwest monsoon, with the India Meteorological Department (IMD) issuing a series of red, orange, and yellow alerts across several states, including Delhi, Maharashtra, Karnataka, and Kerala. The widespread rainfall, accompanied by thunderstorms and strong winds, has heightened flood risks and put local administrations on high alert.
Early Monsoon Arrival and Record Rainfall.
The 2025 monsoon season has arrived ahead of schedule, with the IMD confirming landfall in Kerala on May 25—eight days earlier than usual and the earliest since 2009. The monsoon has rapidly advanced, covering Kerala, Karnataka, Maharashtra, and parts of the Northeast, with Mumbai experiencing its wettest May in over a century and Delhi recording its wettest May since 1901. In Delhi, a recent downpour delivered 81.4 mm of rain in just a few hours, pushing the monthly total to 186.4 mm and breaking previous records.
Alerts and Weather Warnings.
- Delhi:The IMD has issued a ‘yellow’ alert for May 30–31, warning of light rain, thunderstorms, and gusty winds reaching 30–60 kmph. These conditions are expected to persist, though with slightly reduced intensity on May 31. The department forecasts that daytime temperatures will remain below normal, offering relief from the heat and making heatwave conditions unlikely for the rest of the month.
- Kerala and Karnataka:Red alerts have been issued for several districts, with heavy to extremely heavy rainfall forecast through May 31. The intensity is expected to peak in Kerala (May 25–26) and coastal Karnataka (May 25–27).
- Maharashtra and Goa:The monsoon has brought heavy rainfall, with Mumbai seeing significant downpours and waterlogging. Alerts remain in place for continued rain and thunderstorms.
- Northeast India:States such as Assam, Meghalaya, Nagaland, Manipur, Mizoram, and Tripura are bracing for intense rainfall and potential flooding between May 25 and 31.
VIDEO | Kodagu, Karnataka: Madikeri MLA Dr Mantar Gowda visited the worst-hit areas, as rainfall continues to batter the region, prompting authorities to extend the red alert. Educational institutions remain closed as a safety measure. Several trees have been uprooted, and… pic.twitter.com/CzBxSNCUMc
— Press Trust of India (@PTI_News) May 27, 2025
Flood Risks and Government Response.
With the IMD predicting an above-normal monsoon this year, the central government has advised state administrations to review dam and barrage capacities and prepare for potential floods. Technical support and detailed guidelines are being provided to help mitigate flood risks, particularly in vulnerable areas like the Brahmaputra and Ganga basins.
Outlook.
Meteorologists attribute the extreme weather to the convergence of moist southeasterly winds and dry westerlies, intensified by multiple weather systems across northern and western India. The IMD expects the monsoon to continue advancing across the country, with more rainfall forecast for the coming days. While the rains are expected to keep temperatures in check, residents are urged to stay alert for potential disruptions due to storms, waterlogging, and strong winds.
Key Takeaways.
- The 2025 monsoon has arrived early and with record intensity, breaking rainfall records in Delhi and Mumbai.
- Multiple alerts are in effect across India, with Delhi under a ‘yellow’ alert for May 30–31 and red alerts in parts of Kerala and Karnataka.
- Authorities are on high alert for flooding, and precautionary measures are being implemented nationwide.
Residents are advised to monitor official weather updates and follow safety advisories as the monsoon continues to impact large parts of the country.
How will the ongoing monsoon activity affect Delhi’s weather this week.
Delhi is set for a rainy and stormy end to May as the ongoing monsoon activity brings persistent thunderstorms, rain, and gusty winds to the region. The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued a ‘yellow’ alert for the city, warning residents of unstable weather conditions through the end of the month.
Key Weather Impacts for Delhi This Week:
- Frequent Thunderstorms and Rain:The IMD forecasts cloudy skies, recurring thunderstorms, lightning, and periods of rain throughout the week. These conditions are expected to continue until at least May 31, with some days seeing heavier rainfall and others experiencing light showers or drizzle.
- Strong Winds:Gusty winds ranging from 30–50 km/h, occasionally reaching up to 60 km/h during thunderstorms, are likely. These strong winds may cause minor disruptions, including fallen branches or temporary power outages.
- Temperature Relief:Daytime temperatures are expected to remain below normal for this time of year, with maximums generally between 33–38°C and minimums around 25–27°C. This brings much-needed respite from the heat and rules out the likelihood of heatwave conditions for the rest of the month.
- Improved Air Quality:The combination of rain and high winds has already led to a significant improvement in Delhi’s air quality, with the Air Quality Index (AQI) dropping to moderate levels. This trend is expected to continue as wet and windy conditions persist.
- Safety and Advisory:Residents are advised to stay indoors during storms, secure loose items on balconies, avoid parking vehicles under trees or unstable structures, and keep emergency supplies ready. The Municipal Corporation of Delhi has issued a storm preparedness advisory in light of the forecast.
Summary Table: Delhi Weather Outlook (May 27–31, 2025)
| Date | Weather Conditions | Rain/Storm Likelihood | Winds (km/h) | Max Temp (°C) | Min Temp (°C) |
| May 27 | Partly cloudy, thundery dev. | Moderate | 30–50 | 33–38 | 25–27 |
| May 28 | Partly cloudy, thundery dev. | Moderate | 30–50 | 33–38 | 25–27 |
| May 29 | Light rain/thunderstorm likely | High | 30–60 | 33–38 | 25–27 |
| May 30 | Light rain/thunderstorm likely | High | 30–60 | 33–38 | 25–27 |
| May 31 | Very light rain/thunderstorm | Moderate | 30–60 | 33–38 | 25–27 |
Delhi has already recorded its wettest May since 1901, and the city will continue to experience active monsoon conditions this week. Residents should expect more rain, cooler temperatures, and improved air quality, but remain alert for possible disruptions from storms and strong winds.
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