Red Alert for Konkan, Goa as IMD Predicts Extreme Rain; Thunderstorms in Delhi
NEW DELHI — May 23, 2025: The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has sounded a red alert for extremely heavy rainfall in the Konkan and Goa regions, warning of potential flooding and severe weather conditions over the next 72 hours. Simultaneously, Delhi is likely to experience thunderstorms and scattered rainfall, bringing relief from the persistent heatwave gripping the northern plains.
The alert comes in the wake of a low-pressure area forming over the east-central Arabian Sea, which is expected to intensify into a depression and possibly escalate further. This weather system is moving northward and is forecast to impact parts of Maharashtra, Karnataka, and coastal regions.
Red Alert in Konkan and Goa: What to Expect
The IMD has advised residents of Konkan and Goa to remain vigilant as heavy to extremely heavy rain is likely from May 23 to 26.
Key Forecast Details:
- A low-pressure system is moving northward along the south Konkan-Goa coast.
- IMD predicts that it may intensify into a depression within 36 hours.
- Red alert indicates a high risk of flooding, landslides, and infrastructure disruptions.
- Coastal Karnataka and Central Maharashtra may also witness intense rainfall activity.
“The system could strengthen further after forming a depression,” IMD scientist Akhil Srivastava said. “The entire west coast is under surveillance for potential escalation in rainfall intensity.”
Delhi Weather Update: Showers and Thunderstorms Likely
Meanwhile, Delhi NCR witnessed dust storms, hail, and light to moderate rainfall on Wednesday evening, offering a much-needed respite from the scorching temperatures that had breached 40°C earlier this week.
For the next two days, IMD has forecast:
- Thunderstorms with light to very light rain
- Maximum temperature: Expected to remain around 37-40°C
- Minimum temperature: Likely to settle near 23°C
The cyclonic circulation over northwest India is primarily responsible for this sudden shift in weather patterns, Srivastava noted.
Heatwave Alert: Rajasthan, Haryana, and Punjab on IMD Watch
Even as parts of the country see relief from rain, severe heatwave conditions persist in others. IMD has issued red and orange alerts for several northern and western states.
Heatwave Conditions Forecast:
- West Rajasthan: Red alert for severe heat from May 22 to 24.
- East Rajasthan, Punjab, Haryana, Jammu, and Madhya Pradesh: Orange alert issued.
- Temperatures may soar above 45°C, with hot nights in some areas.
The IMD emphasized precautions, especially for the elderly, children, and those with health conditions, urging limited outdoor activity during peak hours.
Fishermen Warning: Arabian Sea Remains Dangerous
The IMD has also issued a marine advisory for fishermen operating along the Arabian Sea coast.
Affected Areas:
- East-central and southeast Arabian Sea
- Coastal belts of Kerala, Karnataka, Konkan, Goa, Gujarat
- Lakshadweep and Comorin regions
Fishing operations are strictly discouraged between May 22 and May 27 due to high wind speeds, rough seas, and risk of cyclonic development.
Nationwide Weather Snapshot at a Glance
| Region | Weather Alert | Forecast Period | Key Concern |
| Konkan-Goa | Red Alert | May 23–26 | Extremely Heavy Rain |
| Delhi-NCR | Thunderstorm Advisory | May 23–24 | Light to Moderate Rain |
| Rajasthan | Red Heatwave Alert | May 22–24 | High Temperatures, Hot Nights |
| Coastal Karnataka | Heavy Rain Alert | May 22–28 | Isolated Extremely Heavy Rain |
| Arabian Sea | Marine Warning | May 22–27 | Unsafe for Fishing |