📷 Image: Wikimedia Commons / TNSE Mahalingam VNR
Weather
IMD Issues Orange Alert for South and Central India as Heavy Rains Loom in 2026
✍️ Nomad Lawyer
🗓 21 Aug 2026, 11:37 AM
👁 5
The India Meteorological Department has raised an orange alert for the southern and central regions, warning of heavy rain and thunderstorms that could disrupt travel in 2026.
The India Meteorological Department (IMD) on Monday elevated its warning to an orange alert for the southern and central parts of the country, citing an approaching system that is expected to bring intense rainfall and frequent thunderstorms.
Meteorologists forecast that the weather disturbance will affect a swath of states from Karnataka and Tamil Nadu in the south to Madhya Pradesh and Chhattisgarh in the centre, with rainfall totals potentially exceeding 150 mm in some locations.
Travel agencies and transport authorities have been advised to monitor the situation closely. The alert urges airlines, railways and road operators to be prepared for possible delays, reduced visibility and localized flooding that could hamper movement.
The IMD recommends that residents stay updated through official bulletins, avoid non‑essential travel during peak downpours, and secure property against water damage. Emergency services are on standby to respond to any incidents arising from the severe weather.
Meteorologists forecast that the weather disturbance will affect a swath of states from Karnataka and Tamil Nadu in the south to Madhya Pradesh and Chhattisgarh in the centre, with rainfall totals potentially exceeding 150 mm in some locations.
Travel agencies and transport authorities have been advised to monitor the situation closely. The alert urges airlines, railways and road operators to be prepared for possible delays, reduced visibility and localized flooding that could hamper movement.
The IMD recommends that residents stay updated through official bulletins, avoid non‑essential travel during peak downpours, and secure property against water damage. Emergency services are on standby to respond to any incidents arising from the severe weather.