Lucknow, July 26, 2025 – The Indian Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued a heavy rainfall alert for 15 districts in Uttar Pradesh today, warning residents of potential thunderstorms, lightning, and strong winds. The alert comes as the monsoon remains active across the state, bringing relief from the heat but raising concerns about flooding and disruptions. Here’s the latest on the situation, with updates as it unfolds.
Weather Alert Details
The IMD’s Lucknow center has forecasted heavy to very heavy rainfall in 15 districts, particularly in eastern and southern Uttar Pradesh. The affected districts include Gorakhpur, Varanasi, Mirzapur, Chandauli, Sonbhadra, Prayagraj, Jaunpur, Ghazipur, Ballia, Mau, Azamgarh, Sultanpur, Ambedkar Nagar, Banda, and Mahoba. The weather department predicts rainfall ranging from 64.5 to 204.4 millimeters in some areas, accompanied by winds gusting up to 40-50 km/h and possible lightning strikes.
“We’re seeing a strong monsoon trough over Uttar Pradesh, which is driving this heavy rainfall,” said Atul Kumar Singh, a senior meteorologist at the Lucknow weather center. “People in these districts should stay cautious, avoid open fields during lightning, and be prepared for waterlogging in low-lying areas.”
Impact on Daily Life
The heavy rain has already started affecting several parts of the state. In Gorakhpur, roads in low-lying areas were waterlogged by Friday evening, causing traffic jams and inconvenience for commuters. “I was stuck on the road for over an hour,” said a schoolteacher. “The water was up to my knees in some places. The city needs better drainage systems.”
In Varanasi, the rising water levels in the Ganga River have raised concerns among residents living near the ghats. Local authorities have deployed teams to monitor river levels and ensure safety. Meanwhile, farmers in rural areas of Banda and Mahoba are worried about crop damage due to excessive rain. “The rain is good for paddy, but too much water can ruin the fields,” said Ram Prasad, a farmer in Mahoba.
The state government has urged district administrations to stay on high alert. Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath has directed officials to ensure relief measures are in place for affected areas. “We’re closely monitoring the situation,” a government spokesperson said. “Rescue teams and emergency services are ready to respond if needed.”
Safety Warnings and Precautions
The IMD has advised residents to avoid unnecessary travel, stay away from waterlogged areas, and refrain from standing under trees or in open fields during thunderstorms. The risk of lightning strikes is particularly high in rural areas, where open spaces are common. In recent weeks, lightning-related incidents have claimed lives across Uttar Pradesh, prompting authorities to issue public safety announcements.
“People should stay indoors as much as possible during heavy rain and lightning,” said a police official in Prayagraj. “We’re also asking parents to keep children away from flooded streets and drains.”
What to Expect Next?
The IMD predicts that the monsoon will remain active across Uttar Pradesh for the next few days, with more districts likely to see heavy rain. A low-pressure area in the Bay of Bengal is expected to move northwest, potentially intensifying rainfall in eastern UP by Monday. “The next 48 hours are critical,” said meteorologist Singh. “We expect the rain to spread to other districts, but the intensity may vary.”
Residents are advised to stay updated through local news and weather apps. The state government has also activated helplines for emergency assistance in affected districts. For now, the focus is on ensuring safety and minimizing damage as the rain continues to pour.
