NEW DELHI: A spell of rain brought down the heat in the national capital on Thursday, offering residents relief from sticky and humid conditions. Several parts of the city remained under cloudy skies as more rain was forecast through the day.The India Meteorological Department (IMD) said light rain was likely between 12.30pm and 3.30pm, with temperatures around 33°C and a 20% chance of rainfall.Rain activity is expected to increase in the evening, with scattered thunderstorms forecast between 4.30pm and 6.30pm. Temperatures are likely to remain between 31°C and 32°C during this period, with the chance of rain rising to 35%.
Heavy rain alerts in several states
The monsoon remained active across several parts of the country, with heavy rainfall reported in Himachal Pradesh, Assam, Gujarat, Odisha, Uttarakhand and Uttar Pradesh. The IMD has issued colour-coded alerts in several districts, warning of heavy to extremely heavy rainfall and associated risks.In Uttar Pradesh, red alerts have been issued for extremely heavy rainfall in Banda, Prayagraj and Mirzapur. Several adjoining districts are under yellow alerts.In Himachal Pradesh, persistent rain has disrupted normal life and affected road, power and water supply infrastructure. According to the State Emergency Operation Centre, 166 roads, including National Highway-003, are blocked. As many as 130 power transformers and 222 water supply schemes have also been affected. Mandi is the worst-hit district, with 84 roads blocked.
Red alert along Kerala coast
The IMD has issued a red alert along the Kerala coast, along with a Swell Surge and High Wave Warning for Kerala, Lakshadweep, south Tamil Nadu and Puducherry.Swell waves of 1.1 to 2.2 metres are expected, with rough sea conditions likely. Fishermen have been advised not to venture into the sea, while restrictions have been placed on small fishing vessel operations, boat movements and beach activities.
Odisha keeps watch on flood-hit areas
In Odisha, authorities are monitoring flood-affected areas as more heavy rain is forecast. According to IMD reports, 429 villages across 52 blocks had been affected by floodwater as of August 15, while 79 rescue teams were deployed.The Central Water Commission has also warned of flash-flood risks in parts of the state.
