India: Adverse weather forecast across much of the country through at least May 26

Event

Adverse weather is forecast across much of India through at least May 26. The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued a special message warning of a spell of unstable weather over northwestern India May 23-26. Further isolated showers and storms are also forecast across much of the rest of the country over the coming days. Heavy rainfall, strong wind gusts, lightning, and hail storms may accompany thunderstorms. Heavy downpours could trigger flooding in low-lying areas and landslides on unstable slopes. Strong winds may cause property damage and power outages. Dust storms are possible in Rajasthan state May 23-25 and heatwave conditions are forecast in some northern regions May 22-23.

As of May 22, the IMD has issued orange thunderstorm, lightning, and hail warnings across coastal Andhra Pradesh and southern interior Karnataka, May 22, Himachal Pradesh May 23, much of northwestern India May 24, and Rajasthan May 25. Yellow thunderstorm, lightning, and hail warnings are in place across parts of the rest of India through May 26. Orange and yellow dust storm warnings have been issued for Rajasthan May 23-25 and yellow heatwave warnings for parts of northern India May 22-23. Authorities will likely issue new alerts or update/rescind existing advisories as weather conditions change over the coming days.

Hazardous Conditions
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.

In areas where high temperatures persist, the extended period of oppressive heat and dry conditions may produce ideal circumstances for wildfire growth. High temperatures could lead to an increased demand for electricity, which might trigger localized brownouts or blackouts, exacerbating hazardous conditions when air conditioning is no longer possible.

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.

Very high temperatures may warp rail tracks and force passenger and freight trains to operate at reduced speeds. Damage to road surfaces is also possible, and overheated vehicles may worsen traffic problems in urban areas where congestion is already a problem. Commercial trucking disruptions might occur, as very high temperatures put more stress on vehicles, making tire blowouts more common.

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.

Heatwaves also pose a threat to vulnerable groups - such as the elderly, children, pregnant women, and those with respiratory illnesses - due to the increased possibility of heat stroke or heat exhaustion during prolonged exposure to high temperatures. These health risks could also extend to relatively healthy individuals during significant heatwave events. In addition to significantly impacting athletes and those who work outdoors, high temperatures can cause problems for people using mass transit. The lack of air conditioning and cramped vehicles during rush hour may lead to some passengers' hospitalization.

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.

During heatwaves, remain indoors in air conditioning when possible. If outdoor activities are necessary, frequently rest in shaded areas; avoid activity during the hottest times of the day. Stay well-hydrated by drinking plenty of fluids. Wear loose-fitting, light-colored clothing. Promptly seek medical attention if signs of heat exhaustion or heat stroke develop.

Resources

India Meteorological Department (IMD)