The India Meteorological Department has warned of widespread rain, thunderstorms, lightning and gusty winds across several parts of the country on July 20, with some regions likely to witness very heavy rainfall.

The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued a fresh weather alert for Monday, July 20, warning of heavy rainfall, thunderstorms, lightning and strong winds across large parts of the country. According to the latest forecast, weather conditions are expected to remain active in several northern, eastern, central and southern states as the southwest monsoon continues to strengthen.

The IMD has advised residents in vulnerable areas to stay updated with official weather bulletins, avoid unnecessary travel during severe storms and take precautions against lightning and strong winds.

Heavy Rain Alert Issued for 22 States

According to the IMD's forecast, heavy rain accompanied by thunderstorms and gusty winds may affect several states, including:

• Uttar Pradesh
• Bihar
• Delhi
• Haryana
• Rajasthan
• Himachal Pradesh
• Uttarakhand
• Jammu & Kashmir
• Jharkhand
• West Bengal
• Odisha
• Madhya Pradesh
• Chhattisgarh
• Sikkim
• Assam
• Meghalaya
• Tripura
• Nagaland
• Kerala
• Karnataka
• Andhra Pradesh
• Telangana
• Tamil Nadu

In some locations, wind speeds may reach 60–75 km/h, especially during thunderstorms.

The weather department has also advised fishermen to avoid venturing into the sea wherever marine weather warnings are in effect.

Weather Systems Behind the Rainfall

Meteorologists attribute the widespread rainfall to an active monsoon pattern supported by multiple weather systems.

A low-pressure area persists over the northwestern Bay of Bengal and adjoining regions, while upper-air cyclonic circulations over parts of eastern Uttar Pradesh, Jharkhand and central India are expected to enhance moisture flow and trigger widespread rainfall.

These systems are likely to keep weather conditions unstable over many regions through the beginning of the week.

Delhi Weather Forecast

Delhi is expected to witness cloudy skies with periods of moderate to heavy rain and thunderstorms on July 20.

Strong winds may accompany intense showers, with gusts reaching around 60–70 km/h in isolated areas.

The national capital is expected to record temperatures of around:

• Maximum: 29°C
• Minimum: 27°C

Uttar Pradesh Weather

Several districts across Uttar Pradesh may receive moderate to heavy rainfall along with thunderstorms and lightning.

Cities including Lucknow, Varanasi, Prayagraj, Gorakhpur, Agra, Mathura, Meerut, Noida and surrounding regions may experience strong winds and intermittent rain during the day.

Expected temperatures for Lucknow:

• Maximum: 29°C
• Minimum: 27°C

Bihar Weather

The IMD has forecast widespread rainfall in Bihar, with the possibility of thunderstorms and lightning in many districts.

Residents have been advised to remain cautious during outdoor activities, particularly in open fields, due to the risk of lightning strikes.

Patna is expected to record:

• Maximum: 29°C
• Minimum: 27°C

Rain Likely in Eastern and Himalayan States

Heavy rain warnings have also been issued for:

• Jharkhand
• West Bengal
• Odisha
• Sikkim
• Assam
• Meghalaya
• Tripura
• Nagaland

Meanwhile, Himalayan states including Uttarakhand, Himachal Pradesh and Jammu & Kashmir may witness heavy showers that could increase the risk of landslides, flash floods and road disruptions in vulnerable areas.

Central and Western India to Receive Rain

Parts of Madhya Pradesh, Chhattisgarh and Rajasthan are also expected to receive moderate to heavy rainfall accompanied by thunderstorms.

Strong winds may temporarily disrupt traffic and lead to waterlogging in low-lying urban areas.

Temperature Outlook for Major Cities

Safety Advisory

The IMD has urged people to take necessary precautions during severe weather conditions.

Residents are advised to:

• Stay indoors during thunderstorms whenever possible.
• Avoid taking shelter under isolated trees or electric poles.
• Keep away from flooded roads and waterlogged areas.
• Secure loose outdoor objects before strong winds arrive.
• Farmers should avoid working in open fields during lightning activity.
• Follow updates issued by the India Meteorological Department and local authorities.

Outlook

With the southwest monsoon remaining active, several parts of India are likely to continue receiving widespread rainfall over the next few days. While the rain may provide relief from heat in many regions, heavy showers, thunderstorms and gusty winds could also cause localized disruptions. People living in weather-sensitive areas should monitor official forecasts and remain prepared for rapidly changing conditions.