News for 'The India Meteorological Department'

Do we really need the meteorological department?

Do we really need the meteorological department?

Rediff.com23 Jul 2012

A dedicated system to make district-wise, five-day forecasts can effectively deliver at one-tenth the Met's expenditure.

After weeks of lull, heavy rains lash Mumbai; IMD predicts more showers

After weeks of lull, heavy rains lash Mumbai; IMD predicts more showers

Rediff.com13 Sep 2026

Mumbai experienced heavy rainfall after a prolonged dry spell, leading to waterlogging in some areas. The India Meteorological Department has warned of intense showers, thunderstorms, and gusty winds, along with forecasts for high and low tides.

Chennai Open Opening Day Washed Out Due To Persistent Rain

Chennai Open Opening Day Washed Out Due To Persistent Rain

Rediff.com2 Nov 2026

The opening day of the WTA 250 Chennai Open was completely washed out on Monday due to persistent heavy rain, exacerbated by an active northeast monsoon and a cyclonic weather system over the Bay of Bengal. Organisers have rescheduled all 16 first-round singles matches for Tuesday, with play set to begin at 11 am, as they grapple with the challenging weather conditions that also affected last year's event.

BRICS summit to have unexpected visitor: Rains

BRICS summit to have unexpected visitor: Rains

Rediff.com11 Sep 2026

Delhi is experiencing heavy rainfall and strong winds, prompting the India Meteorological Department (IMD) to issue a red alert, which is impacting ongoing preparations for the crucial BRICS Summit.

Delhi's AQI slips into 'very poor' for 1st time this season

Delhi's AQI slips into 'very poor' for 1st time this season

Rediff.com2 Nov 2026

Delhi's air quality slipped into the 'very poor' category for the first time this season on Monday, with an AQI of 312. This triggers Stage 2 of the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP), leading to stricter measures to control pollution. Minimum temperatures were also noted.

Cyclone Murasu makes landfall, 120 kmph winds batter Andhra coast

Cyclone Murasu makes landfall, 120 kmph winds batter Andhra coast

Rediff.com3 Nov 2026

Severe cyclonic storm Murasu has commenced its landfall process near Ongole in Prakasam district, Andhra Pradesh, bringing heavy rainfall and gale winds of up to 120 kmph, according to the India Meteorological Department (IMD).

GRAP Stage 1 imposed in Delhi-NCR as air quality slips to 'poor'

GRAP Stage 1 imposed in Delhi-NCR as air quality slips to 'poor'

Rediff.com21 Oct 2026

The Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM) has implemented Stage 1 of the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP) in Delhi-NCR after the Air Quality Index (AQI) deteriorated to the 'poor' category. Forecasts indicate the AQI will remain poor in the coming days, triggering restrictions like banning coal and firewood in eateries and limiting diesel generator use.

Cyclone Arnab to make landfall in Andhra between 2 am and 4 am today

Cyclone Arnab to make landfall in Andhra between 2 am and 4 am today

Rediff.com28 Oct 2026

Andhra Pradesh is on high alert as very severe cyclonic storm Arnab is set to make landfall on its coast, with extensive evacuations, deployment of medical teams, and stocking of essential supplies underway to minimise damage and ensure public safety.

IMD forecasts below normal monsoon rainfall for India

IMD forecasts below normal monsoon rainfall for India

Rediff.com29 May 2026

The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has predicted that the June-September southwest monsoon seasonal rainfall over India is expected to be 90 per cent of the long-period average. While the Northeast is likely to witness normal rainfall, the remaining parts of the country may see below normal rainfall.

Cyclone Arnab 'Practically Stationary'

Cyclone Arnab 'Practically Stationary'

Rediff.com28 Oct 2026

The US Navy's Joint Typhoon Warning Center (JTWC) has predicted that Cyclone Arnab could intensify into a powerful storm with winds reaching 222 kmph, significantly higher than the India Meteorological Department's (IMD) forecast of 125-135 kmph at landfall. Coastal Andhra Pradesh is bracing for potential severe weather and a sea surge.

Assam floods death toll rises to 87, 1.3 lakh affected

Assam floods death toll rises to 87, 1.3 lakh affected

Rediff.com4 Aug 2026

Assam's flood toll has climbed to 87 with two new fatalities, even as water levels recede in most inundated areas, affecting nearly 1.3 lakh people. The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued warnings for extremely heavy rainfall in neighbouring Arunachal Pradesh and Meghalaya, which could impact several bordering Assam districts.

High alert in Odisha as Cyclone Murasu intensifies

High alert in Odisha as Cyclone Murasu intensifies

Rediff.com1 Nov 2026

Odisha is preparing for Cyclone Murasu, which intensified from a deep depression over the Bay of Bengal. This comes less than a week after Cyclone Arnab hit the region, causing significant damage and prompting relief efforts. Murasu is expected to make landfall in Andhra Pradesh on November 3, bringing heavy rainfall to Odisha.

El Nino may intensify as southwest monsoon ends with 12.6% deficit

El Nino may intensify as southwest monsoon ends with 12.6% deficit

Rediff.com15 Oct 2026

The southwest monsoon has withdrawn from India, while the northeast monsoon has commenced in southern regions, bringing a wet spell. This year's southwest monsoon saw a rainfall deficit, largely attributed to the strengthening El Nino conditions, which are expected to persist until February 2027 and could become the strongest since 1950.

Heavy rain waterlogs Delhi, traffic, flights disrupted

Heavy rain waterlogs Delhi, traffic, flights disrupted

Rediff.com24 Aug 2026

Heavy rainfall in Delhi led to widespread waterlogging and severe traffic congestion, bringing the national capital to a standstill, with the India Meteorological Department issuing a red alert for further heavy rain.

Mumbai Shuts Schools, Colleges Amid Downpour Alert

Mumbai Shuts Schools, Colleges Amid Downpour Alert

Rediff.com4 Jul 2026

The Mumbai civic body declared a holiday for schools and colleges in the afternoon session following an India Meteorological Department (IMD) red alert for extremely heavy rainfall. Citizens have been advised to stay indoors unless necessary, as the city continues to experience significant monsoon downpours, with some areas receiving over 100 mm of rain.

Monsoon arrives in Kerala, below normal rainfall predicted

Monsoon arrives in Kerala, below normal rainfall predicted

Rediff.com4 Jun 2026

The southwest monsoon has officially set over Kerala, albeit delayed from its typical June 1 start. The India Meteorological Department (IMD) forecasts below-normal rainfall for the season, expecting around 90% of the long-period average, primarily due to the emerging El Nino conditions.

Delhi records most polluted Diwali in 5 years, AQI 376

Delhi records most polluted Diwali in 5 years, AQI 376

Rediff.com3 days ago

Delhi experienced its most polluted Diwali in five years with an average Air Quality Index (AQI) of 376, and the day after the festival saw only a marginal improvement, remaining in the 'very poor' category at 371, accompanied by a thick blanket of smog and fog.

Mumbai braces for extremely heavy rainfall; red alert issued for weekend

Mumbai braces for extremely heavy rainfall; red alert issued for weekend

Rediff.com3 Jul 2026

The India Meteorological Department has issued a red alert for Mumbai, Thane, Palghar, and Raigad districts for Saturday and Sunday, forecasting extremely heavy rainfall. Mumbai has already experienced significant rainfall this week, and the alert indicates continued severe weather conditions, potentially disrupting normal life.

India braces for below-normal rainfall for Aug-Sept

India braces for below-normal rainfall for Aug-Sept

Rediff.com1 Aug 2026

The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has predicted below-normal rainfall for India during the second half of the southwest monsoon season, specifically from August to September. This forecast indicates less than 94 per cent of the Long Period Average (LPA) for the period. While July saw good rainfall activity due to low-pressure systems and the Madden-Julian Oscillation, the Southern Peninsula experienced significantly low rainfall and record high minimum temperatures.

IMD predicts heavy rain, thunderstorms in Mumbai today

IMD predicts heavy rain, thunderstorms in Mumbai today

Rediff.com30 Jun 2026

The India Meteorological Department has forecast intensified heavy rains and thunderstorms for Mumbai and its suburbs. A yellow alert has been issued, and high tides are expected, though traffic and public transport are currently normal.

India's East Coast braces for another Cyclone, flights cancelled

India's East Coast braces for another Cyclone, flights cancelled

Rediff.com2 Nov 2026

India's eastern coastal states are bracing for Cyclone Murasu, the second severe cyclone within a week, leading to flight cancellations, deployment of disaster response teams, and the evacuation of thousands. The cyclone is expected to make landfall between Nellore and Narsapur in south Andhra Pradesh with wind speeds of 100-110 kmph.

Thousands stranded as Mumbai-Goa highway flooded due to heavy rains

Thousands stranded as Mumbai-Goa highway flooded due to heavy rains

Rediff.com6 Jul 2026

Heavy rainfall in Maharashtra's Raigad district caused severe waterlogging on the Mumbai-Goa highway, leading to traffic standstills, diversions, and thousands of commuters being stranded. A 'red' alert has been issued for the district, and inadequate drainage infrastructure is being blamed for the recurring flooding.

North India swelters under brutal heatwave; UP's Banda hottest

North India swelters under brutal heatwave; UP's Banda hottest

Rediff.com20 May 2026

North India is experiencing an intense heatwave, with temperatures soaring to 48 degrees Celsius in some areas. Several states have issued warnings and advisories as the heatwave is expected to continue.

Heavy rains lash TN, roads waterlogged; teen killed in wall collapse

Heavy rains lash TN, roads waterlogged; teen killed in wall collapse

Rediff.com23 Oct 2026

Heavy rains across Tamil Nadu have caused localised waterlogging and brought down temperatures, particularly in districts like Madurai and Virudhunagar. A tragic incident in Virudhunagar district saw a 17-year-old girl die and her mother injured after a house wall collapsed due to the downpour. Meanwhile, the India Meteorological Department has forecast the formation of a cyclonic storm in the Bay of Bengal by October 26, which is expected to move towards North Andhra Pradesh and South Odisha coasts, though it poses no direct threat to Tamil Nadu.

SEE: Delhi airport flooded after heavy rain, flights diverted

SEE: Delhi airport flooded after heavy rain, flights diverted

Rediff.com4 Sep 2026

Delhi's Indira Gandhi International Airport experienced waterlogging at its Terminal 2 and 3 approach roads and forecourts due to heavy rainfall. While the accumulated water was cleared, the severe weather conditions led to the diversion of at least nine flights to other cities like Jaipur, Lucknow, and Ahmedabad. The India Meteorological Department had issued a red alert for intense rainfall in the national capital.

Cyclone Arnab triggers flash flood alert in 13 Andhra districts

Cyclone Arnab triggers flash flood alert in 13 Andhra districts

Rediff.com28 Oct 2026

The India Meteorological Department's Cyclone Warning Centre has issued a moderate to high flash flood risk warning for 13 districts of Andhra Pradesh and Yanam until Thursday morning due to Cyclone Arnab. The very severe cyclonic storm has already caused extremely heavy rainfall and gale-force winds in the region, with Chief Minister N Chandrababu Naidu seeking central assistance for relief efforts.

Delhi AQI data questioned as stations go offline on Diwali night

Delhi AQI data questioned as stations go offline on Diwali night

Rediff.com3 days ago

Delhi experienced its most polluted Diwali in five years, but the official air quality figures are under scrutiny. Several monitoring stations reportedly went offline during the peak firecracker period on Sunday night, leading to discrepancies between government and private agency data. Experts and opposition leaders have raised concerns about the reliability of the AQI tracking, with allegations of "data fraud" and calls for greater transparency and accountability.

Assam floods worsen, 41 killed so far, over 6.5 lakh affected

Assam floods worsen, 41 killed so far, over 6.5 lakh affected

Rediff.com23 Jul 2026

Assam faces a severe flood crisis with 41 deaths and over 6.5 lakh people displaced, prompting intensified rescue operations and a critical alert for continued heavy rainfall.

Mumbai drenched by 300 mm rain; flight services hit, two killed

Mumbai drenched by 300 mm rain; flight services hit, two killed

Rediff.com5 Jul 2026

Heavy rainfall in Mumbai on Sunday led to significant disruptions, including a one-hour suspension of flight operations at Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj International Airport, widespread waterlogging, and multiple treefall incidents. One person died in Kurla due to a tree collapse, marking the second such fatality in a week. The India Meteorological Department had issued a 'red' alert, with several areas recording over 200 mm of rain.

Cyclone Arnab batters Odisha, 30,000 evacuated

Cyclone Arnab batters Odisha, 30,000 evacuated

Rediff.com28 Oct 2026

Cyclone Arnab has triggered heavy to extremely heavy rainfall across southern Odisha, leading to the evacuation of over 30,000 people and a high alert in several districts. The cyclone, which weakened after making landfall in Andhra Pradesh, has disrupted train services and prompted extensive disaster preparedness measures.

Heavy rain disrupts life across North India; six killed in UP

Heavy rain disrupts life across North India; six killed in UP

Rediff.com26 Sep 2026

Heavy rainfall has severely impacted Uttar Pradesh, Jharkhand, and Uttarakhand, leading to casualties, widespread flooding, and significant disruptions. The Char Dham Yatra was suspended, flights were cancelled, and standing crops were damaged. Other regions like Himachal Pradesh, West Bengal, Rajasthan, and Delhi also experienced varied weather conditions, including snowfall and light rains.

Southwest monsoon likely to hit Kerala in next two-three days: IMD

Southwest monsoon likely to hit Kerala in next two-three days: IMD

Rediff.com1 Jun 2026

The India Meteorological Department forecasts the southwest monsoon to arrive in Kerala in the next two to three days, slightly delayed from the typical June 1 start. The department also predicts below-normal rainfall for the season due to emerging El Nino conditions.

Cyclone Arnab makes landfall, heavy rains in Andhra Pradesh

Cyclone Arnab makes landfall, heavy rains in Andhra Pradesh

Rediff.com28 Oct 2026

Cyclone Arnab made landfall on the Andhra coast early on Wednesday, causing widespread destruction including uprooted trees, damaged roads, and power outages. Two individuals died from electrocution in separate incidents. Chief Minister N Chandrababu Naidu has directed officials to expedite restoration efforts and provide aid to affected areas, while heavy rainfall is expected to continue.

North India sizzles at 45 deg Celsius, relief likely from Tuesday

North India sizzles at 45 deg Celsius, relief likely from Tuesday

Rediff.com26 Apr 2026

Northern states in India are experiencing severe heatwave conditions, with temperatures reaching up to 46.6 degrees Celsius. The heatwave has impacted daily life, leading to a decline in tourism and increased power demand. Authorities have issued advisories and implemented measures to mitigate the effects of the extreme heat.

At 125 kmph, Cyclone Arnab to hit Andhra coast on Wednesday; schools shut

At 125 kmph, Cyclone Arnab to hit Andhra coast on Wednesday; schools shut

Rediff.com27 Oct 2026

A deep depression in the Bay of Bengal has intensified into Cyclone Arnab, expected to become a very severe cyclonic storm by October 27. It is forecast to cross the Andhra Pradesh and Yanam coasts on the morning of October 28, bringing heavy rainfall and strong winds. Authorities are urging residents to remain alert and take precautions.

Monsoon Withdrawal To Begin September 19

Monsoon Withdrawal To Begin September 19

Rediff.com15 Sep 2026

Rainfall during the monsoon season so far, from June 1 to September 13, has been 15 per cent below normal.

Cyclone Arnab batters Andhra, kills 5 as trees and poles topple

Cyclone Arnab batters Andhra, kills 5 as trees and poles topple

Rediff.com28 Oct 2026

Cyclone Arnab made landfall on the Andhra coast early on Wednesday, causing widespread destruction, including uprooted trees, damaged infrastructure, and inundated low-lying areas. Five people were killed in related incidents, primarily due to electrocution and wall collapse. Chief Minister N Chandrababu Naidu has sought central assistance and outlined relief measures for affected residents and farmers.

Mumbai reels under torrential rains, IMD issues 'extremely heavy rainfall' alert

Mumbai reels under torrential rains, IMD issues 'extremely heavy rainfall' alert

Rediff.com4 Jul 2026

Mumbai and its metropolitan region are experiencing severe monsoon rains, leading to widespread waterlogging, transport disruptions, and the closure of schools and colleges. The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued an 'extremely heavy rainfall' alert, with some areas receiving nearly 200 mm of rain in 12 hours, prompting Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis to urge residents to avoid non-essential travel.

El Nio Drags Monsoon To 11-Year Low

El Nio Drags Monsoon To 11-Year Low

Rediff.com1 Oct 2026

This was the fourth-lowest rainfall since 2001 and the 13th lowest since 1901, under the impact of El NiƱo.

IMD issues orange alert for Mumbai; heavy rain, thunderstorms likely

IMD issues orange alert for Mumbai; heavy rain, thunderstorms likely

Rediff.com29 Jun 2026

The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued an orange alert for Mumbai, predicting heavy to very heavy rainfall, thunderstorms, lightning, and gusty winds for the next few days. The forecast extends through Friday, with a brief yellow alert on Tuesday. Neighbouring Palghar is under a red alert, and Raigad is under an orange alert for five days.