📷 Image: Wikimedia Commons / MODIS Land Rapid Response Team, NASA GSFC
Weather
IMD issues red alert as Bengal depression set to unleash heavy rains across several states
✍️ theweek.in
🗓 19 Aug 2026, 04:38 AM
👁 5
The Indian Meteorological Department has raised a red alert for multiple states as a Bengal depression is forecast to bring intense rainfall in the coming days.
The Indian Meteorological Department (IMD) has upgraded its warning to a red alert for a number of states after detecting a Bengal depression that is expected to intensify and bring heavy rainfall over the next 48 hours. Meteorologists say the low‑pressure system, originating over the Bay of Bengal, is moving northwestward and will affect regions across eastern and central India.
Authorities have urged residents in the warned areas to stay alert, avoid non‑essential travel, and secure property against potential waterlogging. Local disaster management teams have been placed on standby to respond to any flood‑related emergencies, and officials have advised farmers to protect standing crops where possible.
The IMD will continue to monitor the system closely, issuing updates every six hours. Historically, Bengal depressions have triggered severe flooding in river‑basin districts, prompting pre‑emptive measures such as opening of sluice gates and deployment of rescue teams.
State governments have been asked to coordinate with the National Disaster Management Authority to ensure swift relief operations if the rainfall leads to flash floods or landslides. Citizens are encouraged to follow official advisories broadcast on television, radio and digital platforms.
Authorities have urged residents in the warned areas to stay alert, avoid non‑essential travel, and secure property against potential waterlogging. Local disaster management teams have been placed on standby to respond to any flood‑related emergencies, and officials have advised farmers to protect standing crops where possible.
The IMD will continue to monitor the system closely, issuing updates every six hours. Historically, Bengal depressions have triggered severe flooding in river‑basin districts, prompting pre‑emptive measures such as opening of sluice gates and deployment of rescue teams.
State governments have been asked to coordinate with the National Disaster Management Authority to ensure swift relief operations if the rainfall leads to flash floods or landslides. Citizens are encouraged to follow official advisories broadcast on television, radio and digital platforms.