The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has released its latest weather update for May 16, warning of thunderstorms, heavy rain, and strong winds in many parts of the country.
More than 19 states are expected to witness unstable weather conditions today.
In some areas, strong winds may reach speeds of up to 60 km/h.
At the same time, the southwest monsoon has started moving forward over parts of the Andaman Sea and Bay of Bengal, bringing positive news ahead of the rainy season.
Bihar and Andaman on High Alert
The most serious weather conditions are expected in Bihar and the Andaman and Nicobar Islands.
According to the IMD, these regions may experience severe thunderstorms, lightning, and strong winds blowing at 50-60 km/h. Wind gusts could even touch 70 km/h in some places.
People living in these areas have been advised to stay alert and avoid unnecessary travel during storms.
Thunderstorm Warning in 19 States
The IMD has also issued thunderstorm and lightning alerts for several states across the country. Wind speeds of 40-50 km/h are expected in many regions.
North India
Jammu and Kashmir, Ladakh, Himachal Pradesh, Uttarakhand, and eastern Rajasthan may witness rain and thunderstorms today.
Central and Eastern India
Chhattisgarh, Jharkhand, Odisha, West Bengal, and Sikkim are likely to receive rain along with strong winds.
Western India
Konkan, Goa, Central Maharashtra, and Marathwada are also under weather alert.
South India
Karnataka, Kerala, Mahe, Andhra Pradesh, Rayalaseema, and Lakshadweep may experience thunderstorms and rainfall.
Northeast India
Nagaland, Manipur, Mizoram, and Tripura are expected to see stormy weather conditions as well.
Apart from this, Assam, Meghalaya, Telangana, and Tamil Nadu may witness winds blowing at 30-40 km/h.
Heavy Rain Likely in Many Areas
The strongest impact of rainfall is expected in coastal and northeastern regions.
The Andaman and Nicobar Islands may receive very heavy rainfall today.
Heavy rain alerts have also been issued for parts of Arunachal Pradesh, Assam, Meghalaya, Kerala, South Interior Karnataka, Sub-Himalayan West Bengal, Sikkim, Tamil Nadu, and Puducherry.
Monsoon Begins Advancing
There is good news regarding the southwest monsoon.
According to the IMD, weather conditions are becoming favorable for the monsoon to move further ahead.
On May 16, the monsoon is advancing over parts of the south Bay of Bengal, the Andaman Sea, and the Andaman and Nicobar Islands.
The monsoon is expected to reach Kerala around May 26, although there may be a variation of up to four days.
Heatwave Continues in North and Central India
While many states are receiving rain, several parts of North and Central India are still facing intense heat.
Heatwave alerts have been issued for Uttar Pradesh, Rajasthan, Madhya Pradesh, Jharkhand, and Vidarbha.
According to the forecast, severe heatwave conditions may continue in Uttar Pradesh and Rajasthan between May 18 and May 21.
Warm night conditions are also expected in Madhya Pradesh and Vidarbha.
Meanwhile, Konkan and Goa are likely to witness very hot and humid weather.
Special Warning for Fishermen
The IMD has also issued a sea weather warning for fishermen.
In the Arabian Sea, wind speeds may reach up to 60 km/h near the Kerala coast and Lakshadweep. Along the Somalia coast, winds could touch 65 km/h.
In the Bay of Bengal, sea conditions are expected to remain very rough in the Gulf of Mannar, the Andaman Sea, and the south and central Bay of Bengal.
Fishermen have been advised not to venture into these areas until conditions improve.
