The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued a weather alert for 20 districts in Uttar Pradesh, including the southern parts of the state, predicting heavy to very heavy rainfall due to the active monsoon conditions. According to the weather department, the southern regions of UP are expected to experience intense rainfall, with conditions potentially worsening over the next few days.

As per the forecast issued on July 2, 2025, the IMD has warned that heavy rainfall will continue across various regions of Uttar Pradesh for the next six to seven days, especially in areas already experiencing significant rainfall. This weather alert has been issued in anticipation of further disruptions due to heavy rain and the possibility of localized flooding.

Heavy Rainfall Expected in Southern UP and 19 Other Districts

The monsoon has become particularly active in the southern parts of Uttar Pradesh, with an increased likelihood of intense rainfall in regions such as Varanasi, Agra, and other districts in the southern belt. The weather department’s alert emphasizes that these areas will receive very heavy rainfall, which could lead to waterlogging, traffic disruptions, and other potential hazards.

The forecasted rainfall in Uttar Pradesh includes:

• Heavy Rainfall: Between 7 cm to 20 cm of rain in a span of 24 hours.

• Very Heavy Rainfall: Over 20 cm of rain, which could cause flash floods in low-lying areas and urban centers.

The IMD’s warning indicates that the rainfall will not be limited to southern UP but will extend across other districts of the state. This includes areas like Lucknow, Kanpur, Agra, and Ghaziabad. The coming days are expected to bring a combination of moderate to intense rainfall across various parts of Uttar Pradesh, making it crucial for residents and local authorities to remain vigilant.

Monsoon’s Active Role in the Heavy Rainfall

The active monsoon system is playing a crucial role in bringing the heavy rainfall to Uttar Pradesh. The southwest monsoon, which has been sweeping across the country for the past few weeks, is intensifying over the state, causing periodic heavy rainfall. While the monsoon is generally welcomed for boosting agriculture, this year’s heavy rains could pose significant risks due to the volume and duration of the rainfall expected.

As the monsoon continues to gain strength, the rainy spells are predicted to intensify, particularly from July 2nd to 8th, which could result in floods in low-lying and coastal areas, particularly in the southern districts of the state. Farmers, especially in rural regions, will need to prepare for the impact of the rains on crop yield and their daily activities.

Varanasi and Agra: Record Rainfall and Stormy Days Ahead

In Varanasi, one of the key cities under the alert, rainfall has already exceeded the average for the month of June by 39%, indicating that the rains are far from over. Residents of Varanasi have been experiencing increased rainfall over the past few days, and the forecast suggests that the trend will continue for the coming week.

Similarly, in Agra, which is another area prone to heavy rainfall during the monsoon, the weather forecast predicts continuous heavy rain for the next five days. The downpour in Agra will likely affect local infrastructure, leading to waterlogging in several parts of the city. Authorities are on high alert to address the potential disruptions to public services, transportation, and daily life.

Moreover, several reports suggest that severe thunderstorms may accompany the heavy rain, potentially leading to power outages and tree falls. Agra’s residents are advised to stay indoors when the weather conditions worsen to avoid any untoward incidents.

How the Weather Will Affect Different Parts of UP

As the monsoon intensifies, the effects of heavy rainfall will not only be felt in the southern regions but also across various districts in central and eastern Uttar Pradesh. The weather department has identified 20 districts as high-risk areas for heavy rainfall. These districts, which include both rural and urban zones, will likely face a mix of moderate to severe downpours over the next several days.

• In Rural Areas: Flash floods, waterlogging in fields, and difficulties in transportation could disrupt farmers’ daily activities. The rains will particularly impact rice, sugarcane, and maize crops, which are in critical stages of growth.

• In Urban Areas: In cities like Lucknow, Kanpur, and Varanasi, the rains may cause severe waterlogging in roads and markets. Urban infrastructure is often ill-prepared for prolonged downpours, leading to delays in public transport and occasional power failures.

Safety Measures to Be Taken During Heavy Rainfall

As Uttar Pradesh braces for another round of heavy rainfall, the IMD has urged residents to take necessary precautions:

1. Avoid Travel: People living in flood-prone or low-lying areas should avoid non-essential travel during the forecasted rain periods. Rivers and streams are likely to swell, and roads may become slippery or submerged, posing a risk to safety.

2. Stay Updated: Keep monitoring weather alerts through the official IMD website or reliable news sources for updates on rainfall patterns, especially in case of flash floods or landslides.

3. Prepare for Waterlogging: Authorities are preparing to deal with waterlogging in key urban areas. Citizens are encouraged to clear drainage systems, secure valuables, and avoid venturing into flooded areas.

4. Ensure Safety of Children and Elderly: The rainy season often leads to an increase in accidents, and the elderly and children are most vulnerable. Keep them indoors during peak rainfall hours.

As the monsoon season continues, Uttar Pradesh faces a crucial week of heavy rainfall, particularly in the southern districts and other high-risk areas. While the monsoon brings much-needed water for agriculture, the extreme weather conditions this year have the potential to disrupt daily life, especially in areas prone to flooding.

With the IMD’s forecast of continuous heavy rainfall over the next few days, local authorities are on high alert, and residents are urged to stay prepared for possible disruptions. The coming days will be a test of resilience for communities, infrastructure, and the state’s emergency management systems.