The Indian Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued a significant weather alert for Uttar Pradesh, predicting intense rainfall across several districts over the next 48 hours. As monsoon activity gains momentum across North India, UP is expected to receive heavy to very heavy downpours, increasing the risk of waterlogging, traffic disruptions, and localized flooding.
In this blog, we break down the key details about the upcoming weather conditions, the regions most at risk, safety precautions, and what residents should expect in the coming days.
📍 Rain Alert Overview: What Has IMD Said?
According to the latest bulletin from the India Meteorological Department (IMD):
- A yellow to orange alert has been issued for many areas in Uttar Pradesh.
- The forecast includes moderate to heavy showers, with thunderstorms, lightning, and strong winds.
- The situation is expected to persist for 48 to 72 hours, depending on local climatic variations.
This warning follows the advancement of a strong monsoon trough that has become active over the Indo-Gangetic plains, including eastern and central UP.
🗺️ Districts Likely to Be Affected
As per the IMD’s regional forecast and state authorities, the following districts are likely to be most affected:
- Eastern UP: Gorakhpur, Deoria, Azamgarh, Ballia, Mau, Kushinagar
- Central UP: Lucknow, Kanpur, Raebareli, Sultanpur
- Western UP: Bareilly, Budaun, Pilibhit, Rampur, Shahjahanpur
- Terai and Himalayan Foothills: Lakhimpur Kheri, Bahraich, Shravasti
These areas may experience 100–150 mm of rainfall, posing a risk to low-lying regions and agricultural lands.
⛈️ Weather Patterns Behind the Downpour
The current spell of rain is driven by:
- Monsoon trough extending from Punjab to the Bay of Bengal, crossing central UP
- Cyclonic circulation over northeast Madhya Pradesh and adjoining UP
- Moisture inflow from the Bay of Bengal via easterly winds
These elements together are enhancing cloud formation, resulting in widespread and prolonged rainfall across the state.
⚠️ Impact and Risks
With heavy rainfall expected in such a short span, the following issues are being anticipated:
✅ 1. Urban Flooding
Cities like Lucknow, Kanpur, and Varanasi have poor drainage systems that often lead to waterlogging within a few hours of heavy rain. Commuters may face delays, and several low-lying colonies could flood.
✅ 2. Agricultural Disruption
While the rain benefits standing paddy crops, excessive downpours could damage vegetables, sugarcane, and maize. Farmers are advised to avoid water accumulation in their fields and cover harvested produce.
✅ 3. Traffic and Rail Delays
Heavy rain often leads to train slowdowns, pothole-related accidents, and power outages. NH-27 and NH-28, among others, are likely to witness traffic snarls.
✅ 4. Health Concerns
With stagnant water and high humidity, waterborne diseases like diarrhea, dengue, and malaria may spike in rural and semi-urban areas.
🏥 Preparedness Measures by Authorities
The State Disaster Response Force (SDRF) and district administration have initiated several precautionary steps:
- Deployment of rescue boats and teams in flood-prone zones
- Alerting village panchayats and urban municipalities
- School closures in some districts for 2–3 days
- Round-the-clock helplines and control rooms
In Lucknow, Kanpur, and Varanasi, drainage teams are on standby to prevent waterlogging in key government and hospital zones.
🔊 Government Advisories
IMD and state disaster agencies have urged residents to:
- Avoid non-essential travel, especially during peak rain hours
- Keep emergency kits ready (medicines, torches, water, food)
- Stay away from electrical poles, open drains, and rivers
- Follow updates on TV, radio, and official weather apps
Farmers have also been advised to postpone sowing or pesticide spraying for the next 2 days.
📲 Weather Tools to Stay Updated
To track real-time alerts and forecasts, residents can use:
- IMD Mausam App – https://mausam.imd.gov.in
- Rain Alarm App – Real-time rain notifications
- AccuWeather and Windy – Regional radar and forecasts
- UP Disaster Management Portal – http://upsdma.up.nic.in
🛡️ Safety Checklist for Residents
If you’re residing in or traveling through affected areas, here’s a safety checklist:
| Task | Status |
|---|---|
| Charge mobile phones and power banks | ✅ |
| Store dry food and drinking water | ✅ |
| Avoid basements and underground parking | ✅ |
| Keep school bags and electronics dry | ✅ |
| Do not touch wet electrical equipment | ✅ |
🌾 Monsoon and Agriculture Outlook
While the rain comes as a blessing for rain-fed crops in Bundelkhand and Purvanchal, excess water could delay harvesting and transport logistics.
Experts from the UP Krishi Vigyan Kendra suggest:
- Installing temporary bunds or trenches to drain excess water
- Postponing fertilizer applications till soil moisture normalizes
- Monitoring for fungal infections on standing crops
The next 3–5 days will be crucial in determining crop recovery or damage levels.
🏙️ City-Wise Forecast Snapshot
| City | Rainfall (mm) | Thunderstorm | Temp Range (°C) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Lucknow | 120 mm | Yes | 26–30°C |
| Gorakhpur | 130 mm | Yes | 24–29°C |
| Varanasi | 100 mm | Yes | 25–31°C |
| Bareilly | 115 mm | Yes | 26–30°C |
| Kanpur | 110 mm | Yes | 25–30°C |
💬 Expert Opinion
Dr. M.L. Singh, a senior meteorologist at IMD Lucknow, stated:
“The current monsoon surge is expected to remain strong for 48 hours. Localized flooding, especially near riverbanks and low-lying towns, cannot be ruled out. People must remain indoors during thunderstorm hours.”
📌 Conclusion
As Uttar Pradesh braces for two days of intense monsoon action, staying informed and cautious becomes crucial. The IMD’s alert is not just a weather update—it’s a call to action for preparedness, community support, and safety.
From farmers in Azamgarh to officegoers in Lucknow, everyone has a role to play in minimizing disruption and ensuring wellbeing. The monsoon may be unpredictable, but our response doesn’t have to be.
Stay safe. Stay dry. Stay updated.
📌 FAQs
Q1. How long will the heavy rainfall last in UP?
According to IMD, intense rainfall is expected for the next 48 hours, with possible extensions in certain regions.
Q2. Will schools be closed in the affected areas?
Yes. Some districts like Bahraich and Gorakhpur have announced temporary school closures.
Q3. Is it safe to travel by road or train during this period?
It is recommended to avoid non-essential travel as roads may be waterlogged, and train services could be delayed.
Q4. What mobile apps can help track weather alerts?
Use IMD Mausam App, Rain Alarm, or AccuWeather for real-time forecasts.
Q5. Will farmers be compensated for crop damage?
Assessment will follow after rainfall subsides. District agriculture officers will coordinate compensation under PMFBY or state schemes.
India Meteorological Department (IMD) Official Weather Updates
