India Braces for Storms Across 27 States: MP Sees 10°C Drop, Rajasthan Faces Orange Alert

Widespread Weather Alerts Issued
The India Meteorological Department issued storm and rain alerts for 27 states, driven by a cyclonic circulation over southeast Uttar Pradesh and northwest Madhya Pradesh, bringing thunderstorms, lightning, and gusty winds. This weather system, affecting regions from East Rajasthan to Northeast India, has led to a significant temperature drop in Madhya Pradesh, with some areas recording 10°C, a stark contrast to recent heatwaves. The IMD’s forecast, supported by Senior Scientist Dr. Naresh Kumar, warns of potential disruptions, urging residents to stay indoors and avoid waterlogged areas.

Madhya Pradesh’s Sudden Chill
Madhya Pradesh, typically warm in May, experienced a dramatic temperature plunge to 10°C in parts, attributed to heavy rainfall and strong winds. Districts like Bhopal and Gwalior reported thunderstorms, with the IMD predicting continued rain through May 7. This cooling, while a relief from April’s 40°C highs, poses risks of crop damage and power outages. The state’s meteorology department has advised farmers to protect harvested crops and residents to prepare for sudden weather shifts, as gusty winds up to 50 kmph could affect infrastructure.

Rajasthan’s Orange Alert
Rajasthan faces an orange alert across 18 districts, including Jaipur, Udaipur, and Kota, with heavy rainfall (up to 115 mm) and possible hailstorms forecast through May 7. The IMD’s warning follows a western disturbance impacting southwestern Rajasthan, causing light to moderate rain and thunderstorms. Jhunjhunu recently saw hailstorms, and the alert emphasizes precautions like avoiding open fields during lightning. The state’s agriculture sector, reliant on stable weather, braces for potential impacts, with authorities issuing traffic advisories.

National Impact and Precautions
The storm system affects states like Delhi, Punjab, Haryana, Uttar Pradesh, and Chhattisgarh, with orange alerts for heavy rain and winds up to 60 kmph. Recent Delhi storms disrupted over 100 flights, signaling broader risks. The IMD advises securing loose structures, monitoring road conditions, and unplugging electronics. As India navigates this turbulent weather, the focus is on minimizing damage while leveraging the rainfall to replenish water reserves, balancing relief from heat with the challenges of intense storms.