Heavy Rain Alert: Heavy Rain Threat Looms Over UP, Uttarakhand and Several States

New Delhi: The weather patterns across the country have changed once again. The Meteorological Department has issued an alert regarding heavy rain in about 15 states including Delhi, Bihar, and Madhya Pradesh. The next 24 to 48 hours are going to be very important for many states. During this period, heavy rains can lead to waterlogging, floods and landslides at many places.

In which states has an alert for heavy rains been issued?

Apart from Delhi, the rains may intensify in Bihar, Madhya Pradesh, Uttar Pradesh, Rajasthan, Chhattisgarh, Uttarakhand, Odisha, Jharkhand, Himachal Pradesh and Haryana. An alert regarding rain has also been issued in West Bengal and Sikkim. In view of the heavy rains in many districts of Bihar and Madhya Pradesh, red and orange alerts have been issued. The weather may remain bad in these areas for the next one or two days.

Will there be torrential rains in Delhi-NCR also?

There may be heavy rains in Delhi-NCR during the next 24 to 48 hours. Due to heavy rains, waterlogging on roads and traffic problems may increase. People living in low-lying areas have been advised to take special precautions. The administration has asked people to remain alert in view of the weather. Due to continuous rain, people going to office may also face problems, hence it has been advised not to go out without any need.

In which districts of UP will schools remain closed?

In view of the threat of heavy rains and possible floods in Uttar Pradesh, an alert has been issued in many districts. Orders have been given to keep schools closed in some affected districts on 26 September. The local administration has asked people to stay away from rivers, drains and waterlogged areas.

Why has the risk of floods and landslides increased in Uttarakhand?

A red alert of heavy rain has been issued in Uttarakhand for the next two days. Heavy rain in hilly areas may increase the risk of landslides and flash floods. There is a red alert regarding heavy rain in Dehradun, Tehri, Haridwar and Pauri, while an orange alert has been issued for Nainital, Uttarkashi, Chamoli and Rudraprayag. In such a situation, people travelling in hilly areas have been advised to travel only after observing the weather.

Why has the weather changed?

According to the Meteorological Department, the main reason behind this change is the formation of low pressure area. This system is rapidly moving towards the northwest direction, due to which there is a possibility of increase in rain activities in many states.

What precautions should people take during the rains?

The Meteorological Department and the administration have appealed to the people to avoid unnecessary travel. Do not go near rivers, drains and waterlogged areas. People living in hilly areas and tourists should maintain distance from landslide prone areas. In any emergency, it is important to follow the instructions issued by the local administration.