IMD issues orange alert for thunderstorms, hailstorms in North India; heatwave grips Rajasthan, Gujarat

The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued an orange alert for several northern states, including Jammu and Kashmir, Himachal Pradesh, Uttarakhand and Bihar, warning of thunderstorms, lightning, gusty winds and hailstorms on May 12. The sudden shift in weather conditions across northwest India has been linked to an active Western Disturbance affecting the region.

In its latest weather bulletin, the IMD said, “Isolated thunderstorms, lightning & gusty winds (40-60 kmph) likely over northwest India till 15 May, 2026."

The department also forecast isolated hailstorms over Jammu and Kashmir, Ladakh and Himachal Pradesh on May 12, while Uttarakhand may witness similar conditions on May 12 and 13.

Advisory issued for thunderstorm-hit areas

Authorities have urged residents in affected regions to remain cautious during severe weather activity. People have been advised to stay indoors during thunderstorms and hailstorms, avoid taking shelter under trees or near electric poles, and unplug electrical appliances during lightning activity.

Residents have also been asked to secure loose outdoor objects to prevent wind damage and avoid unnecessary travel during intense weather conditions. Farmers, meanwhile, have been advised to move harvested crops to safer locations to avoid losses.

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Heatwave conditions continue in western India

While parts of north India brace for storms, several western states continue to face intense heat. The IMD has placed parts of Rajasthan and Gujarat under orange alert due to ongoing heatwave conditions.

The weather office said, “Heat wave conditions likely to prevail in isolated pockets over Rajasthan, Gujarat and West Madhya Pradesh” during the next three to four days.

According to the forecast, maximum temperatures are expected to rise gradually across northwest, central and eastern India over the coming days. Warm-night conditions are also likely in isolated pockets of Rajasthan until May 15.

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Heavy rainfall forecast for northeast and eastern states

In northeast India, the IMD has predicted heavy to very heavy rainfall in parts of Assam and Meghalaya between May 13 and 17. Arunachal Pradesh is also expected to receive heavy rainfall during the same period.

The department said, “Isolated heavy to very heavy rainfall likely over Assam & Meghalaya during 13th – 17th, Arunachal Pradesh on 17th May.”

Sub-Himalayan West Bengal and Sikkim are likely to witness isolated heavy rainfall until May 14, while thunderstorm activity is expected across southern states, including Tamil Nadu, Kerala, Andhra Pradesh, and Karnataka, over the next few days.