29 Mar 2023 | 09:15 AM UTC
India: Adverse weather forecast across much of the country through at least April 1
Severe weather forecast across much of India through at least April 1. Possible flooding and associated disruptions.
Event
Adverse weather is forecast across much of India through at least April 1. As of March 29, the India Meteorological Department (IMD) has warned that a combination of weather systems will bring a fresh spell of rainfall, thunderstorms, and hail storms across northwestern regions late March 29-April 1, and eastern and northeastern regions March 30-1. Strong wind gusts and possible lightning may accompany storms. Heavy downpours could trigger flooding in low-lying areas and landslides on unstable slopes. Strong winds may cause property damage and power outages.
The IMD issued yellow thunderstorm and lightning warnings (the lowest level on a three-tier scale) across parts of eastern, northern, northeastern, northwestern, southern, and western India on March 29. Orange thunderstorm, lightning, and hail warnings have been issued across parts of north and northwest India for March 30, as well as yellow thunderstorm and lightning warnings across the rest of northern and northwest India and parts of central, eastern, northeastern, and southern India. Orange warnings are in place across much of north and east India for March 31, and yellow warnings are in place across parts of central, eastern, far northern, and northeastern India. Yellow warnings remain in place across the eastern half of India for April 1 and parts of southwestern India. Authorities will likely issue new alerts or update/rescind existing advisories as weather conditions change over the coming days.
Hazardous Conditions
The storms could produce sustained rainfall across the affected areas and trigger flooding in low-lying communities near rivers, streams, and creeks. Urban flooding is also possible in developed areas with easily overwhelmed stormwater drainage systems. Sites downstream from large reservoirs or rivers may be subject to flash flooding after relatively short periods of intense rainfall. Landslides are possible in hilly or mountainous areas, especially where heavy rain has saturated the soil.
Authorities could issue mandatory evacuation orders for flood-prone communities over the coming days. Disruptions to electricity and telecommunications services are possible where significant flooding or landslides impact utility networks.
Transport
Floodwaters and debris flows may render some bridges and roadways impassable, impacting overland travel in and around affected areas. Ponding on road surfaces could cause hazardous driving conditions on regional highways. Authorities could temporarily close some low-lying routes that become inundated by floodwaters. Severe weather could also trigger flight delays and cancellations at airports in the affected regions.
Localized business disruptions may occur in low-lying areas; some businesses might not operate at total capacity because of flood damage to facilities, possible evacuations, and some employees' inability to reach work sites.
Health
Flooding could heighten the threat of disease outbreaks. Backflow from drains mixed with floodwaters can become trapped in open areas when inundations recede. These stagnant pools often become a breeding ground for mosquitoes and bacteria, increasing the incidence of insect- and water-borne diseases. Exposure to contaminated water from inundated industrial sites, sewer systems, and septic tanks also poses a significant health threat.
Advice
Monitor local media for updated emergency and weather information. Seek updated information on weather and road conditions before driving or routing shipments through areas where severe weather is forecast. Plan accordingly for potential freight delivery delays if routing shipments through the affected area. Do not attempt to drive through flooded areas. Confirm flights. Charge battery-powered devices in case prolonged electricity outages occur.
Observe strict food and water precautions, as municipalities could issue boil-water advisories following flooding events. Take precautions against insect-borne and waterborne diseases in the coming days.
