Flash Flood Alert – IMD Warns of Heavy Rainfall Across Several States
Flash Flood Alert – The India Meteorological Department has issued a flash flood warning for parts of Rajasthan, Himachal Pradesh, Uttarakhand, Madhya Pradesh, Gujarat, Maharashtra, Konkan and Goa, with the advisory remaining in effect until July 9. Officials have urged residents in vulnerable areas to remain alert as intense rain may trigger sudden flooding in local watersheds and low-lying neighbourhoods.
Heavy Rainfall May Increase Flood Risk
The IMD’s National Flash Flood Guidance Bulletin said some of the identified areas could receive up to 190 mm of rain within 24 hours. The risk is higher in these locations because the ground is already heavily saturated after earlier rainfall.
Soil moisture levels in the affected watersheds are estimated at 95 to 100 per cent, leaving little capacity for additional water to be absorbed. This could result in rapid runoff into streams, drains and rivers. By comparison, soil saturation across much of the rest of the country is around 40 per cent.
Sudden Flooding Can Develop Within Hours
Flash floods occur when very heavy rain falls over a short period, often causing water levels to rise quickly in rivers, drains and hilly channels. Such flooding can develop within six hours of intense rainfall and may recede rapidly once the rain eases.
Despite their short duration, flash floods can damage roads, disrupt transport, affect homes in low-lying areas and create dangerous conditions near water bodies. Residents have been advised to avoid crossing flooded roads or moving close to swollen streams during periods of heavy rain.
Satellite Images Show Strong Rain Clouds
Satellite observations have shown scattered to broken patches of intense convective cloud cover over east Rajasthan, Himachal Pradesh, Uttarakhand, west Madhya Pradesh, the Gujarat region, Konkan and Goa, Madhya Maharashtra, and Marathwada.
These cloud formations are associated with strong thunderstorm activity and may lead to short spells of exceptionally heavy rain. The weather department said cloudburst-like conditions cannot be ruled out in some areas, particularly where terrain and local weather systems support rapid cloud development.
Gujarat and Konkan Districts Under Watch
For the next six hours, the IMD has assessed a low to moderate flash flood threat in parts of Gujarat and the Konkan-Goa belt. Areas mentioned in the bulletin include Dadra and Nagar Haveli, Daman, and Valsad in the Gujarat region.
In Maharashtra’s coastal belt, Mumbai City, Mumbai Suburban, Palghar, Raigad and Thane have also been included in the advisory. These districts may experience waterlogging and local flooding if heavy showers continue for extended periods.
Wider Rainfall Expected Across India
A moderate flash flood risk has also been indicated for July 9 in east Rajasthan, west Madhya Pradesh, central Maharashtra, Marathwada and parts of Gujarat. Konkan and Goa are expected to remain vulnerable as the monsoon system continues to bring moisture into the region.
Himachal Pradesh and Uttarakhand face a low to moderate flood threat over the next 24 hours. The IMD has also forecast widespread rainfall across central, eastern and northeastern parts of India, which could affect normal life in areas already receiving sustained monsoon showers.