As heavy rains lashed parts of Maharashtra, bodies of six people were recovered by civil administration after in Maharashtra's Ratnagiri after Tiware dam breached on Wednesday, causing a flood-like situation in seven downstream villages.

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<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/UPDATE?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#UPDATE</a> 6 bodies have been recovered so far after Tiware dam in Ratnagiri was breached. Rescue operations continue. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Maharashtra?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Maharashtra</a> <a href="https://t.co/qS1f9dWuTO">https://t.co/qS1f9dWuTO</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1146267879697985536?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 3, 2019</a></blockquote>
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According to a report by news agency ANI, around 22-24 people are feared to be missing. Twelve houses near the dam have been washed away.&nbsp;

A team of National Disaster Response Force (NDRF), police and volunteers are present at the spot and carrying out relief efforts.

Further details regarding the incident are awaited.

Parts of Maharashtra are hit by worst monsoon rain with Mumbai, country's financial capital, recording the second highest rainfall in the last 45 years.

The heavy downpour has caused several accidents across Maharashtra while issues like waterlogging have brought the city to a standstill.

Following the torrential rains, Tuesday was declared a public holiday by the state government and people were advised to avoid stepping out of their houses.&nbsp;

Several subways and roads have been shut due to water logging and flooding.

The main runway of the Mumbai airport was also shut for operation after a flight overshot the main runway.

Meanwhile, more rains have been predicted by the Indian Meteorological Department for the next 48 hours.

As heavy rains lashed parts of Maharashtra, bodies of six people were recovered by civil administration after in Maharashtra's Ratnagiri after Tiware dam breached on Wednesday, causing a flood-like situation in seven downstream villages.

As heavy rains lashed parts of Maharashtra, bodies of six people were recovered by civil administration after in Maharashtra's Ratnagiri after Tiware dam breached on Wednesday, causing a flood-like situation in seven downstream villages. #UPDATE 6 bodies have been recovered so far after Tiware dam in Ratnagiri was breached. Rescue operations continue. #Maharashtra https://t.co/qS1f9dWuTO — ANI (@ANI) July 3, 2019 × According to a report by news agency ANI, around 22-24 people are feared to be missing. Twelve houses near the dam have been washed away. A team of National Disaster Response Force (NDRF), police and volunteers are present at the spot and carrying out relief efforts. Further details regarding the incident are awaited. Parts of Maharashtra are hit by worst monsoon rain with Mumbai, country's financial capital, recording the second highest rainfall in the last 45 years. The heavy downpour has caused several accidents across Maharashtra while issues like waterlogging have brought the city to a standstill. Following the torrential rains, Tuesday was declared a public holiday by the state government and people were advised to avoid stepping out of their houses. Several subways and roads have been shut due to water logging and flooding. The main runway of the Mumbai airport was also shut for operation after a flight overshot the main runway. Meanwhile, more rains have been predicted by the Indian Meteorological Department for the next 48 hours.

Maharashtra: Around 22 people missing as dam breached in Ratnagiri; six bodies recovered

With heavy rains lashing Mumbai for the fifth consecutive day, air, train and road traffic has been disrupted. At least 21 people have been killed in separate incidents of wall collapse in the state due to heavy rains. In view of the Indian Meteorological Department’s forecasts of heavy rains today in and around Mumbai, Maharashtra has declared Tuesday as a public holiday in Mumbai.

Mumbai: 27 killed as overnight downpour brings city to a standstill, heavy rainfall expected today

India's annual monsoon rains have covered nearly half of the country and conditions are favourable for further advancement into the central and western parts this week, a weather department official said on Monday.

The monsoon's progress will help farmers to accelerate sowing of summer-sown crops, which has been lagging due to a delay in the arrival of monsoon rains.

"In the last three days, monsoon has gained momentum. It has covered the entire southern and eastern India," said a weather department official, who declined to be named.

Conditions are favourable for further advancement of monsoon rains into the central state of Madhya Pradesh and the western state of Gujarat, the official said.

The monsoon has delivered 38% lower-than-normal rainfall since the start of the season on June 1, due to a delay in the progress of monsoon rains, according to data compiled by the India Meteorological Department.

India's annual monsoon rains have covered nearly half of the country and conditions are favourable for further advancement into the central and western parts this week, a weather department official said on Monday.

India's annual monsoon rains have covered nearly half of the country and conditions are favourable for further advancement into the central and western parts this week, a weather department official said on Monday. The monsoon's progress will help farmers to accelerate sowing of summer-sown crops, which has been lagging due to a delay in the arrival of monsoon rains. "In the last three days, monsoon has gained momentum. It has covered the entire southern and eastern India," said a weather department official, who declined to be named. Conditions are favourable for further advancement of monsoon rains into the central state of Madhya Pradesh and the western state of Gujarat, the official said. The monsoon has delivered 38% lower-than-normal rainfall since the start of the season on June 1, due to a delay in the progress of monsoon rains, according to data compiled by the India Meteorological Department.

Monsoon rains cover half of the country: IMD official

With the progress of monsoon still remaining sluggish, 84 per cent of the meteorological subdivisions have recorded deficient rainfall, MeT department data shows.

According to the Central Water Commission data, of the 91 major reservoirs in the country, 80 per cent have storage below normal. Of these, 11 have zero per cent storage, making the water crisis acute.

The official rainfall season starts from June 1 to September 30, but the overall monsoon deficiency until June 22 still remains around 39 per cent.&nbsp;

Of the 36 meteorological subdivisions, 25 per cent have recorded "deficient" rainfall, while six subdivisions recorded precipitation classified under the "large deficient" category.

Odisha and Lakshadweep subdivisions have recorded "normal" rainfall. While Jammu Kashmir and East Rajasthan recorded "excess" rainfall, the Andaman and Nicobar Islands-registered rainfall under the "large excess" category.&nbsp;

The India Meteorological Department has four divisions east and the northeast, south peninsula, central India and northwest India.

The east and northeast India division comprise northeastern states and eastern states of Bihar, Jharkhand, and West Bengal and all have registered deficient rainfall. 
Of the 10 subdivisions of central India, Odisha is the only one to receive normal rainfall.&nbsp;

Four subdivisions, including three from Maharashtra&nbsp;Vidarbha, Marathwada and central Maharashtra&nbsp;have recorded rainfall in the category of "large deficient". The east Madhya Pradesh subdivision has also recorded rainfall in the same category.&nbsp;

Vidarbha, Marathwada and central Maharashtra subdivisions have been facing a drought-like situation, with water levels in reservoirs reaching extremely low levels.

Although the Gujarat and Saurashtra and the Kutch subdivisions under central India have recorded "deficient" rainfall, Cyclone Vayu helped bring down some of the shortfalls.

The deficiency in these two subdivisions was 100 per cent until June 9, but it went down to 50 and 26 per cent respectively.&nbsp;

Of ten divisions in the south peninsula division, eight are deficient. The Andaman and Nicobar Island subdivision recorded "large excess" rainfall, the only one under this category in the country, while Lakshadweep recorded "normal" rainfall.

With Chennai reeling under a severe water crisis, the Tamil Nadu, Puducherry and Karaikal subdivision has a deficiency of nearly 38 per cent.

Monsoon reached Kerala on June 8, a week after its normal onset date. Its progress was halted for more than a week due to Cyclone Vayu in the Arabian Sea, causing delay in its advancement in several parts.&nbsp;

The situation, however, is likely to improve. The IMD on Sunday said monsoon has further advanced into east Uttar Pradesh, some parts of central Maharashtra, most parts of Marathwada and Vidarbha.

With the progress of monsoon still remaining sluggish, 84 per cent of the meteorological subdivisions have recorded deficient rainfall, MeT department data shows.

With the progress of monsoon still remaining sluggish, 84 per cent of the meteorological subdivisions have recorded deficient rainfall, MeT department data shows. According to the Central Water Commission data, of the 91 major reservoirs in the country, 80 per cent have storage below normal. Of these, 11 have zero per cent storage, making the water crisis acute. The official rainfall season starts from June 1 to September 30, but the overall monsoon deficiency until June 22 still remains around 39 per cent. Of the 36 meteorological subdivisions, 25 per cent have recorded "deficient" rainfall, while six subdivisions recorded precipitation classified under the "large deficient" category. Odisha and Lakshadweep subdivisions have recorded "normal" rainfall. While Jammu Kashmir and East Rajasthan recorded "excess" rainfall, the Andaman and Nicobar Islands-registered rainfall under the "large excess" category. The India Meteorological Department has four divisions east and the northeast, south peninsula, central India and northwest India. The east and northeast India division comprise northeastern states and eastern states of Bihar, Jharkhand, and West Bengal and all have registered deficient rainfall. Of the 10 subdivisions of central India, Odisha is the only one to receive normal rainfall. Four subdivisions, including three from Maharashtra Vidarbha, Marathwada and central Maharashtra have recorded rainfall in the category of "large deficient". The east Madhya Pradesh subdivision has also recorded rainfall in the same category. Vidarbha, Marathwada and central Maharashtra subdivisions have been facing a drought-like situation, with water levels in reservoirs reaching extremely low levels. Although the Gujarat and Saurashtra and the Kutch subdivisions under central India have recorded "deficient" rainfall, Cyclone Vayu helped bring down some of the shortfalls. The deficiency in these two subdivisions was 100 per cent until June 9, but it went down to 50 and 26 per cent respectively. Of ten divisions in the south peninsula division, eight are deficient. The Andaman and Nicobar Island subdivision recorded "large excess" rainfall, the only one under this category in the country, while Lakshadweep recorded "normal" rainfall. With Chennai reeling under a severe water crisis, the Tamil Nadu, Puducherry and Karaikal subdivision has a deficiency of nearly 38 per cent. Monsoon reached Kerala on June 8, a week after its normal onset date. Its progress was halted for more than a week due to Cyclone Vayu in the Arabian Sea, causing delay in its advancement in several parts. The situation, however, is likely to improve. The IMD on Sunday said monsoon has further advanced into east Uttar Pradesh, some parts of central Maharashtra, most parts of Marathwada and Vidarbha.

84% of IMD's subdivisions record deficient rainfall; 80% reservoirs have below normal storage

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/cyclone-vayu-may-recurve-hit-gujarats-kutch-officials-227191">Very Severe Cyclonic storm "Vayu"</a> lay centred at 1530 hrs IST, about 335 km west-southwest of Porbandar (Gujarat) and is currently moving away from the coast, India Meteorological Department said on Saturday evening.

Earlier it was reported that Cyclone Vayu is moving towards westwards and is "likely to hit Kutch as a deep depression."

"Due to the Cyclone Vayu Kutch along with nearby areas such as Saurashtra will receive heavy downpour for a couple of hours. Though the wind speed in these regions will not be very strong," said IMD director Jayant Sarkar.

The IMD director also assured that the Cyclone will not cause any substantial damage in the areas where it will come.

The Cyclone is expected to move towards North Gujarat in a weakening state on June 18.

Light to moderate rains will continue in the areas such as Junagadh and Porbandar.

The IMD has advised fishermen not to venture into the sea for the next few days.The Indian Coast Guard, the Navy, the National Disaster Response Force and the state authorities are on high alert. Army teams have been kept on stand-by.&nbsp;

Very Severe Cyclonic storm "Vayu" lay centred at 1530 hrs IST, about 335 km west-southwest of Porbandar (Gujarat) and is currently moving away from the coast, India Meteorological Department said on Saturday evening.

Very Severe Cyclonic storm "Vayu" lay centred at 1530 hrs IST, about 335 km west-southwest of Porbandar (Gujarat) and is currently moving away from the coast, India Meteorological Department said on Saturday evening. Earlier it was reported that Cyclone Vayu is moving towards westwards and is "likely to hit Kutch as a deep depression." "Due to the Cyclone Vayu Kutch along with nearby areas such as Saurashtra will receive heavy downpour for a couple of hours. Though the wind speed in these regions will not be very strong," said IMD director Jayant Sarkar. The IMD director also assured that the Cyclone will not cause any substantial damage in the areas where it will come. The Cyclone is expected to move towards North Gujarat in a weakening state on June 18. Light to moderate rains will continue in the areas such as Junagadh and Porbandar. The IMD has advised fishermen not to venture into the sea for the next few days.The Indian Coast Guard, the Navy, the National Disaster Response Force and the state authorities are on high alert. Army teams have been kept on stand-by.

Cyclone Vayu currently moving away from coast, says IMD

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/bharat-delhi-high-court-dismisses-pil-against-salman-khans-film-223922">Delhi</a> and its adjoining areas are likely to get slight relief from the intense heat in the next 48 hours, said <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/heavy-rains-to-hit-odisha-today-evening-indian-meteorological-department-warns-26151">India Meteorological Department (IMD).</a>

The minimum and maximum temperatures of the national capital are likely to hover at 30 degree Celsius and 40 degree Celsius tomorrow.

Besides, the weather forecasting agency also predicted that moderate to heavy rain, <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/hailstorm-possibility-in-delhi-199975">thundershowers</a> along with lightning and gusty winds up to 40-50 kilometres&nbsp;per hour with possibility of hail at one or two places very likely to continue in the districts of Bilaspur, Hamirpur, Solan, Shimla, Kinnaur, Sirmaur, Mandi and Kullu in the next few hours.

Heatwave&nbsp;conditions in many parts with a severe heat wave in isolated pockets very likely over east Madhya Pradesh and Vidarbha. East Rajasthan and in isolated pockets over Haryana, Marathwada Chhattisgarh, and Telangana are also likely to bear the brunt of the summer heat.&nbsp;

Delhi and its adjoining areas are likely to get slight relief from the intense heat in the next 48 hours, said India Meteorological Department (IMD). The minimum and maximum temperatures of the national capital are likely to hover at 30 degree Celsius and 40 degree Celsius tomorrow.

Delhi and its adjoining areas are likely to get slight relief from the intense heat in the next 48 hours, said India Meteorological Department (IMD). The minimum and maximum temperatures of the national capital are likely to hover at 30 degree Celsius and 40 degree Celsius tomorrow. Besides, the weather forecasting agency also predicted that moderate to heavy rain, thundershowers along with lightning and gusty winds up to 40-50 kilometres per hour with possibility of hail at one or two places very likely to continue in the districts of Bilaspur, Hamirpur, Solan, Shimla, Kinnaur, Sirmaur, Mandi and Kullu in the next few hours. Heatwave conditions in many parts with a severe heat wave in isolated pockets very likely over east Madhya Pradesh and Vidarbha. East Rajasthan and in isolated pockets over Haryana, Marathwada Chhattisgarh, and Telangana are also likely to bear the brunt of the summer heat.

Delhi likely to get relief from scorching heat in next 48 hours: IMD

Scorching <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/delhi-sizzles-at-45-degrees-as-heatwave-continues-its-spell-223345">heatwave conditions</a> gripped large swathes of the country Saturday as the mercury crossed the 50-degree mark in Rajasthan's Churu, while several other places endured maximum temperatures markedly above normal with the weatherman saying there will be no respite until next week.

The national capital battled weather conditions in the "red category" as the maximum temperature recorded at the Palam observatory was 46.1°C, according to the India Meteorological Department. The Safdarjung observatory recorded a maximum of 43.5°C.&nbsp;

The India Meteorological Department Friday issued the highest "red-colour" warning for the city. Mahesh Palawat of the Skymet Weather said heatwave conditions will persist in Delhi for another week and the maximum temperature will hover around 46 degrees Celsius.&nbsp;

Churu in the western part of the desert state of Rajasthan was the hottest place in the country at 50.8 degrees Celsius, nine notches above normal, according to the met department office in Jaipur.

The entire state reeled under intense heatwave conditions with Ganganagar, Bikaner, Jaisalmer and Kota recording their maximums at 49, 47.9, 47.2 and 46 degrees Celsius. Jodhpur, Jaipur and Barmer registered their maximum day temperatures at 45.6, 45.2, 44.5 degrees Celsius.&nbsp;

In Uttar Pradesh, the highest maximum temperature was recorded in Banda at 48.4 degrees Celsius. Several areas in the state reeled under heatwave conditions.

The IMD said heatwave to severe heatwave conditions are very likely to prevail over Rajasthan, Vidarbha and Madhya Pradesh during the next five days and over Punjab, Haryana, Chandigarh and Delhi and south Uttar Pradesh during the next three.

A heat wave is usually declared when the maximum temperature remains above 45 degrees Celsius for two consecutive days.

Heatwave conditions intensified in Punjab and Haryana also, with Narnaul (Haryana) sizzling at 47.2 degrees Celsius. Hisar experienced blistering heatwave conditions at 45.6 degrees Celsius, three notches above normal, as per a meteorological department report.

In Punjab, Amritsar and Ludhiana reeled under severe heatwave conditions with 45.7 and 44.1 degrees Celsius, up by five degrees above normal, respectively. Union Territory Chandigarh, the common capital of Punjab and Haryana, sizzled at 42.4 degrees Celsius, three degrees above normal.&nbsp;

In the hill state of Himachal Pradesh, at least four places recorded their maximum temperatures in excess of 40 degrees Celsius. The hottest place in the state was Una at 44.9 followed by Bilaspur 43, Hamirpur 40.6, Mandi 40.5 degrees Celsius.&nbsp;

However, capital Shimla and some other parts of the state got some relief from the scorching heat as thundershowers accompanied with gusty winds came towards the evening, Shimla MeT Centre Director Manmohan Singh said.

Watch: Severe heat wave across the globe

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&nbsp;

In the northern state of Jammu and Kashmir, the Jammu city recorded a maximum of 43.6 degrees Celsius, 4.2 notches above season's average. While heatwave conditions continued throughout the day, there was a light dust storm in Jammu.

Elsewhere, the IMD said the maximum temperatures were markedly above normal (5.1°C or more) at many places over central Maharashtra and in some parts of Himachal Pradesh, west Rajasthan, east Madhya Pradesh and north interior Karnataka.&nbsp;

The maximum temperatures were 3.1°C-5.0°C above normal at most places in Punjab, Haryana, Chandigarh, New Delhi, Vidarbha and Marathwada and at a few places over Rayalaseema and Kerala.&nbsp;

The heatwave condition continued to prevail in the western part of Odisha while the coastal region encountered high humidity levels as 10 places in the state recorded maximum temperatures above 40 degree Celsius Saturday, IMD sources said.

Jharsuguda and Angul in the western region of the state recorded the temperature of 42.6 degrees Celsius and 42.1 degrees Celsius, respectively.

Scorching heatwave conditions gripped large swathes of the country Saturday as the mercury crossed the 50-degree mark in Rajasthan's Churu, while several other places endured maximum temperatures markedly above normal with the weatherman saying there will be no respite until next week.

Scorching heatwave conditions gripped large swathes of the country Saturday as the mercury crossed the 50-degree mark in Rajasthan's Churu, while several other places endured maximum temperatures markedly above normal with the weatherman saying there will be no respite until next week. The national capital battled weather conditions in the "red category" as the maximum temperature recorded at the Palam observatory was 46.1°C, according to the India Meteorological Department. The Safdarjung observatory recorded a maximum of 43.5°C. The India Meteorological Department Friday issued the highest "red-colour" warning for the city. Mahesh Palawat of the Skymet Weather said heatwave conditions will persist in Delhi for another week and the maximum temperature will hover around 46 degrees Celsius. Churu in the western part of the desert state of Rajasthan was the hottest place in the country at 50.8 degrees Celsius, nine notches above normal, according to the met department office in Jaipur. The entire state reeled under intense heatwave conditions with Ganganagar, Bikaner, Jaisalmer and Kota recording their maximums at 49, 47.9, 47.2 and 46 degrees Celsius. Jodhpur, Jaipur and Barmer registered their maximum day temperatures at 45.6, 45.2, 44.5 degrees Celsius. In Uttar Pradesh, the highest maximum temperature was recorded in Banda at 48.4 degrees Celsius. Several areas in the state reeled under heatwave conditions. The IMD said heatwave to severe heatwave conditions are very likely to prevail over Rajasthan, Vidarbha and Madhya Pradesh during the next five days and over Punjab, Haryana, Chandigarh and Delhi and south Uttar Pradesh during the next three. A heat wave is usually declared when the maximum temperature remains above 45 degrees Celsius for two consecutive days. Heatwave conditions intensified in Punjab and Haryana also, with Narnaul (Haryana) sizzling at 47.2 degrees Celsius. Hisar experienced blistering heatwave conditions at 45.6 degrees Celsius, three notches above normal, as per a meteorological department report. In Punjab, Amritsar and Ludhiana reeled under severe heatwave conditions with 45.7 and 44.1 degrees Celsius, up by five degrees above normal, respectively. Union Territory Chandigarh, the common capital of Punjab and Haryana, sizzled at 42.4 degrees Celsius, three degrees above normal. In the hill state of Himachal Pradesh, at least four places recorded their maximum temperatures in excess of 40 degrees Celsius. The hottest place in the state was Una at 44.9 followed by Bilaspur 43, Hamirpur 40.6, Mandi 40.5 degrees Celsius. However, capital Shimla and some other parts of the state got some relief from the scorching heat as thundershowers accompanied with gusty winds came towards the evening, Shimla MeT Centre Director Manmohan Singh said. Watch: Severe heat wave across the globe × In the northern state of Jammu and Kashmir, the Jammu city recorded a maximum of 43.6 degrees Celsius, 4.2 notches above season's average. While heatwave conditions continued throughout the day, there was a light dust storm in Jammu. Elsewhere, the IMD said the maximum temperatures were markedly above normal (5.1°C or more) at many places over central Maharashtra and in some parts of Himachal Pradesh, west Rajasthan, east Madhya Pradesh and north interior Karnataka. The maximum temperatures were 3.1°C-5.0°C above normal at most places in Punjab, Haryana, Chandigarh, New Delhi, Vidarbha and Marathwada and at a few places over Rayalaseema and Kerala. The heatwave condition continued to prevail in the western part of Odisha while the coastal region encountered high humidity levels as 10 places in the state recorded maximum temperatures above 40 degree Celsius Saturday, IMD sources said. Jharsuguda and Angul in the western region of the state recorded the temperature of 42.6 degrees Celsius and 42.1 degrees Celsius, respectively.

Scorching heatwave conditions prevail across India as temperature nears 51° C in Rajasthan

Torrential rain hit Sri Lanka's capital on Tuesday as <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/cyclone-fani-imd-issues-yellow-warning-in-odisha-predicting-heavy-rainfall-214909">cyclone Fani heads toward the coast of eastern India</a> and is expected to intensify into an "extremely severe" storm.

Fani is generating maximum sustained winds of 85 knots, or about 157 kph, according to a storm advisory from the US Navy's Joint Typhoon Warning Center.

The storm is currently in the Bay of Bengal about 690 kilometres east-southeast of Chennai and moved north-northwest at a speed of 16 km per hour over the past six hours, the India Meteorological Office said.

The office has forecast heavy rainfall in Odisha and in some parts of the state of Andhra Pradesh in the next few days with state government asking officials to be alert and evacuate people if the storm intensifies and makes landfall.

Meanwhile, the Indian Meteorological Department (IMD) &nbsp;issued a 'yellow warning' for Odisha coast predicting heavy to very heavy rainfall at isolated places such as Boudh, Kalahandi, Sambalpur, Deogarh, and Sundargarh.

Torrential rain hit Sri Lanka's capital on Tuesday as cyclone Fani heads toward the coast of eastern India and is expected to intensify into an "extremely severe" storm.

Torrential rain hit Sri Lanka's capital on Tuesday as cyclone Fani heads toward the coast of eastern India and is expected to intensify into an "extremely severe" storm. Fani is generating maximum sustained winds of 85 knots, or about 157 kph, according to a storm advisory from the US Navy's Joint Typhoon Warning Center. The storm is currently in the Bay of Bengal about 690 kilometres east-southeast of Chennai and moved north-northwest at a speed of 16 km per hour over the past six hours, the India Meteorological Office said. The office has forecast heavy rainfall in Odisha and in some parts of the state of Andhra Pradesh in the next few days with state government asking officials to be alert and evacuate people if the storm intensifies and makes landfall. Meanwhile, the Indian Meteorological Department (IMD) issued a 'yellow warning' for Odisha coast predicting heavy to very heavy rainfall at isolated places such as Boudh, Kalahandi, Sambalpur, Deogarh, and Sundargarh.

Cyclone Fani hits Sri Lanka with heavy rainfall

The Indian Meteorological Department (IMD) on Tuesday issued a 'yellow warning' for <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/navy-coast-guard-ships-ndrf-teams-deployed-along-east-coast-to-deal-with-cyclone-fani-214847">Odisha coast predicting heavy to very heavy rainfall</a> at isolated places such as Boudh, Kalahandi, Sambalpur, Deogarh, and Sundargarh.

"Heavy to very heavy rainfall at isolated places the districts of&nbsp;&nbsp;Boudh, Kalahandi Sambalpur Deogarh and Sundargarh of Odisha," said the IMD.&nbsp;

As per the disaster management division of the Ministry of Home Affairs, Cyclone Fani is very likely to move northwestwards on till May 1 noon and thereafter recurve north-northeastwards and cross Odisha Coast between Gopalpur and Chandbali. From there, it will move to the south of Puri around May 3 afternoon with maximum sustained wind of speed 175-185 kmph gusting to 205 kmph.

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Gale wind with speed 150 -160 kmph gusting to 170 is also likely over the districts of Ganjam, Puri, Jagatsinghpur, Kendrapara, 110-120 kmph gusting to 130 kmph is also likely over the districts of&nbsp;&nbsp;Gajapati, Khurda, Cuttack, Jajpur, Bhadrak, Balasore, 80-90 kmph over the districts of Nayagarh, Angul, Keonjhar, Mayurbhanj, Dhenkanal and squally wind speed 30-40 kmph gust to 50 kmph over the rest districts of Odisha&nbsp;&nbsp;by the evening of May 3, the IMD said.&nbsp;

The sea conditions are very likely to be rough to very rough along and off Odisha Coast on May 2 and become high to phenomenal by May 4.

Fishermen have been advised not to venture into deep sea areas of northwest and adjoining West-central Bay of Bengal along and off Odisha coast from May 2 to May 4.&nbsp;

The expected damage due to Cyclone Fani includes -- extensive damage to all types of kutcha houses, extensive uprooting of communication and power poles, disruption of rail and road link at several places, extensive damage to standing crops, plantations, orchards, blowing down of Palm and coconut trees, uprooting of large bushy trees and large boats and ships may get torn from their moorings.

In order to prevent such damage, IMD has advised total suspension of fishing operations, extensive evacuation from coastal areas, diversion or suspension of rail and road traffic, no movement in motor boats and small ships and people in affected areas to remain indoors.

The Indian Meteorological Department (IMD) on Tuesday issued a 'yellow warning' for Odisha coast predicting heavy to very heavy rainfall at isolated places such as Boudh, Kalahandi, Sambalpur, Deogarh, and Sundargarh.

The Indian Meteorological Department (IMD) on Tuesday issued a 'yellow warning' for Odisha coast predicting heavy to very heavy rainfall at isolated places such as Boudh, Kalahandi, Sambalpur, Deogarh, and Sundargarh. "Heavy to very heavy rainfall at isolated places the districts of Boudh, Kalahandi Sambalpur Deogarh and Sundargarh of Odisha," said the IMD. As per the disaster management division of the Ministry of Home Affairs, Cyclone Fani is very likely to move northwestwards on till May 1 noon and thereafter recurve north-northeastwards and cross Odisha Coast between Gopalpur and Chandbali. From there, it will move to the south of Puri around May 3 afternoon with maximum sustained wind of speed 175-185 kmph gusting to 205 kmph. Gale wind with speed 150 -160 kmph gusting to 170 is also likely over the districts of Ganjam, Puri, Jagatsinghpur, Kendrapara, 110-120 kmph gusting to 130 kmph is also likely over the districts of Gajapati, Khurda, Cuttack, Jajpur, Bhadrak, Balasore, 80-90 kmph over the districts of Nayagarh, Angul, Keonjhar, Mayurbhanj, Dhenkanal and squally wind speed 30-40 kmph gust to 50 kmph over the rest districts of Odisha by the evening of May 3, the IMD said. The sea conditions are very likely to be rough to very rough along and off Odisha Coast on May 2 and become high to phenomenal by May 4. Fishermen have been advised not to venture into deep sea areas of northwest and adjoining West-central Bay of Bengal along and off Odisha coast from May 2 to May 4. The expected damage due to Cyclone Fani includes -- extensive damage to all types of kutcha houses, extensive uprooting of communication and power poles, disruption of rail and road link at several places, extensive damage to standing crops, plantations, orchards, blowing down of Palm and coconut trees, uprooting of large bushy trees and large boats and ships may get torn from their moorings. In order to prevent such damage, IMD has advised total suspension of fishing operations, extensive evacuation from coastal areas, diversion or suspension of rail and road traffic, no movement in motor boats and small ships and people in affected areas to remain indoors.

Cyclone Fani: IMD issues 'yellow warning' in Odisha predicting heavy rainfall

The dreaded <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/cyclone-fani-has-intensified-into-severe-cyclonic-storm-imd-214625">Cyclone Fani</a> is likely to hit West Bengal on May 3 and the government agencies are expecting largescale damage across the coastal districts of the state.

The Kolkata office of Indian Meteorological Department has issued warning for districts like East and West Midnapore, South and North 24 Parganas, Howrah, Hoogly and Kolkata.

"The extremely severe cyclonic storm 'Fani' is very likely to move northwestwards during next 12 hours and thereafter recurve north-northeastwards and cross Odisha&nbsp; Coast between Gopalpur and Chandbali, around Puri during May 3, afternoon with maximum sustained wind of speed 170-180kmph gusting to 200kmph," said Sajib Banerjee, Deputy Director General of Meteorology, IMD Kolkata.

The alert has been issued to prevent wide-scale damage to the state. The state government has cancelled leaves of all concerned departments like Disaster Management Group and put them on alert. The state police have sounded an alert for those residing in the coastal areas to go to higher ground and further away from the sea as houses may be damaged.

"Total destruction of thatched houses, extensive damage to kutcha houses, and some damage to pucca houses is expected. Potential threat from flying objects, bending and uprooting of power and communication poles, trees, major damage to roads also expected. There could be minor disruption of railways, overhead powerlines and signalling systems. Widespread damage to standing crops, plantations anticipated," added Banerjee.

The <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/odisha-on-high-alert-as-cyclone-fani-progresses-214601">Met office</a> has suggested total suspension of fishing operations, extensive evacuation from coastal areas of east Midnapore, North and South 24 Parganas districts. The fishermen are advised not to venture into the sea from May 2, and those who are already at sea are advised to return to coast.

The state suffered significant damage when hit by the Cyclone Aila in 2009. "The speed of Cyclone Aila was 110-112 kmph, however, the speed of Cyclone Fani is likely to be around 100-120 kmph when it will hit Bengal," added Banerjee.

The NDRF teams too have been stationed in Bengal to combat the cyclone. "As many as 18 NDRF operation teams are being deployed for West Bengal to assist during Cyclone Fani, These teams will be positioned across vulnerable West Bengal districts. The NDRF will act in coordination with concerned West Bengal agencies," NDRF DG Satya Pradhan tweeted.

The Indian Coast Guard has, meanwhile, initiated all actions as per the Standard Operating Procedure prior to the onset of the cyclone.

The dreaded Cyclone Fani is likely to hit West Bengal on May 3 and the government agencies are expecting largescale damage across the coastal districts of the state.

The dreaded Cyclone Fani is likely to hit West Bengal on May 3 and the government agencies are expecting largescale damage across the coastal districts of the state. The Kolkata office of Indian Meteorological Department has issued warning for districts like East and West Midnapore, South and North 24 Parganas, Howrah, Hoogly and Kolkata. "The extremely severe cyclonic storm 'Fani' is very likely to move northwestwards during next 12 hours and thereafter recurve north-northeastwards and cross Odisha Coast between Gopalpur and Chandbali, around Puri during May 3, afternoon with maximum sustained wind of speed 170-180kmph gusting to 200kmph," said Sajib Banerjee, Deputy Director General of Meteorology, IMD Kolkata. The alert has been issued to prevent wide-scale damage to the state. The state government has cancelled leaves of all concerned departments like Disaster Management Group and put them on alert. The state police have sounded an alert for those residing in the coastal areas to go to higher ground and further away from the sea as houses may be damaged. "Total destruction of thatched houses, extensive damage to kutcha houses, and some damage to pucca houses is expected. Potential threat from flying objects, bending and uprooting of power and communication poles, trees, major damage to roads also expected. There could be minor disruption of railways, overhead powerlines and signalling systems. Widespread damage to standing crops, plantations anticipated," added Banerjee. The Met office has suggested total suspension of fishing operations, extensive evacuation from coastal areas of east Midnapore, North and South 24 Parganas districts. The fishermen are advised not to venture into the sea from May 2, and those who are already at sea are advised to return to coast. The state suffered significant damage when hit by the Cyclone Aila in 2009. "The speed of Cyclone Aila was 110-112 kmph, however, the speed of Cyclone Fani is likely to be around 100-120 kmph when it will hit Bengal," added Banerjee. The NDRF teams too have been stationed in Bengal to combat the cyclone. "As many as 18 NDRF operation teams are being deployed for West Bengal to assist during Cyclone Fani, These teams will be positioned across vulnerable West Bengal districts. The NDRF will act in coordination with concerned West Bengal agencies," NDRF DG Satya Pradhan tweeted. The Indian Coast Guard has, meanwhile, initiated all actions as per the Standard Operating Procedure prior to the onset of the cyclone.

Alert in West Bengal as Cyclone Fani advances

The 'very severe cyclonic storm', Titli, which made landfall near Gopalpur district in Odisha this morning will weaken gradually and is expected to turn into a "deep depression" by Friday morning, India Meteorological Department (IMD) said on Thursday.

"It (cyclone Titli) is very likely to move northwestwards for next 12 hours and then re-curve northeastwards towards Gangetic West Bengal across Odisha. It is very likely to weaken gradually becoming severe cyclonic storm around noon, cyclonic storm around evening of today and a deep depression by morning of tomorrow, October 12, 2018," IMD stated.

Earlier on Thursday, Odisha's Gopalpur and Andhra Pradesh's Kalingapatnam reported surface wind speed of 126 kmph at 04:30 am and 59 kmph at 03:30 am respectively. The cyclonic storm caused ''heavy to very heavy rainfall'' in Ganjam, Gajapati and Puri districts of Odisha.

Damage of thatched and asbestos house, street lights, roads blockage due to falling of trees, has been reported in Ganjam district. Further, minor damage to power and communication has also been reported in the district.

Meanwhile, 13 National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) teams have been deployed in several districts of Odisha, including Ganjam, Gajapati, Puri, Kendrapada, Nayagarh, Bhadrak, Jagatsingjpur, Balasore, Jajpur, Khurdha and Sambalpur.Orissa Disaster Rapid Action Force (ODRAF) has also deployed its teams in nine districts--Ganjam, Puri, Jagatsinghpur, Khordha, Cuttack, Balasore, Mayurbhanj, Boudh and Kalahandi.

Fire services team are also on alert to respond at short notice of the district administration. Several preparedness measures have also been taken to ward off any untoward situations.

A total of 30 District Emergency Operation Centres have been activated to track and respond to the cyclonic storm effectively.

300 Powerboats of Special Relief Organisation have been kept ready for relief operation while 879 multi-purpose cyclone or flood shelters have been kept in readiness for sheltering people to be evacuated.

Meanwhile, all government officials have been directed to stay in headquarters and not to avail leave. All schools, colleges and Anganwadi centres will also remain closed till October 12.

As of now, around 3,00,000 people have been evacuated and 1112 relief camps have been opened for the evacuees in the shelters. The situation is being closely monitored at different levels.&nbsp;

The 'very severe cyclonic storm', Titli, which made landfall near Gopalpur district in Odisha this morning will weaken gradually and is expected to turn into a "deep depression" by Friday morning, India Meteorological Department (IMD) said on Thursday.

The 'very severe cyclonic storm', Titli, which made landfall near Gopalpur district in Odisha this morning will weaken gradually and is expected to turn into a "deep depression" by Friday morning, India Meteorological Department (IMD) said on Thursday. "It (cyclone Titli) is very likely to move northwestwards for next 12 hours and then re-curve northeastwards towards Gangetic West Bengal across Odisha. It is very likely to weaken gradually becoming severe cyclonic storm around noon, cyclonic storm around evening of today and a deep depression by morning of tomorrow, October 12, 2018," IMD stated. Earlier on Thursday, Odisha's Gopalpur and Andhra Pradesh's Kalingapatnam reported surface wind speed of 126 kmph at 04:30 am and 59 kmph at 03:30 am respectively. The cyclonic storm caused ''heavy to very heavy rainfall'' in Ganjam, Gajapati and Puri districts of Odisha. Damage of thatched and asbestos house, street lights, roads blockage due to falling of trees, has been reported in Ganjam district. Further, minor damage to power and communication has also been reported in the district. Meanwhile, 13 National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) teams have been deployed in several districts of Odisha, including Ganjam, Gajapati, Puri, Kendrapada, Nayagarh, Bhadrak, Jagatsingjpur, Balasore, Jajpur, Khurdha and Sambalpur.Orissa Disaster Rapid Action Force (ODRAF) has also deployed its teams in nine districts--Ganjam, Puri, Jagatsinghpur, Khordha, Cuttack, Balasore, Mayurbhanj, Boudh and Kalahandi. Fire services team are also on alert to respond at short notice of the district administration. Several preparedness measures have also been taken to ward off any untoward situations. A total of 30 District Emergency Operation Centres have been activated to track and respond to the cyclonic storm effectively. 300 Powerboats of Special Relief Organisation have been kept ready for relief operation while 879 multi-purpose cyclone or flood shelters have been kept in readiness for sheltering people to be evacuated. Meanwhile, all government officials have been directed to stay in headquarters and not to avail leave. All schools, colleges and Anganwadi centres will also remain closed till October 12. As of now, around 3,00,000 people have been evacuated and 1112 relief camps have been opened for the evacuees in the shelters. The situation is being closely monitored at different levels.

Cyclone Titli to weaken gradually with time: IMD

Kerala Meteorological Department on Thursday warned of heavy rainfall in the state for the next five days and have issued a district-wise warning, news agency ANI reported.&nbsp;

"Fishermen have been advised not to venture into the sea for next 2-4 days," K Santosh, Director Kerala Meteorological Department told media.

The rainfall is expected to intensify further into a depression in subsequent 36 hours and then move northwestwards to develop into a cyclonic storm before moving northwest towards the coast of Oman, the MeT department noted.&nbsp;

"Under the influence of cyclonic circulation which is lying over Southeast Arabian Sea and adjoining Lakshadweep Maldives area, a low-pressure area is expected to form over Southeast Arabian Sea near Lakshadweep during next 24 hours," Santosh added.&nbsp;

State authorities today opened 4 shutters of Malampuzha dam in Palakkad region by 9 cm.&nbsp;

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It is likely to intensify further into a depression in subsequent 36 hours&amp;then move northwestwards&amp;develop into a cyclonic storm&amp;again move in northwest direction towards Oman Coast: K Santosh, Director <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Kerala?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Kerala</a> Meteorological Department <a href="https://t.co/5VN2h83zrG">pic.twitter.com/5VN2h83zrG</a>
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Kerala Chief Minister <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/cyclone-offing-kerala-cm-issues-warning-red-alert-sounded-3-districts-169236">Pinarayi Vijayan on Wednesday cautioned the state authorities</a> against a warning sounded by the Indian Meteorological Department. CM Vijayan stated that the IMD has "issued a warning about a low-pressure area in the Arabian sea close to Sri Lankan coast," which may develop into a cyclonic storm and hit the state.&nbsp;

"The predicted trajectory will be along the coast of Lakshadweep," news agency ANI quoted CM Vijayan who added that a red alert has been sounded in three districts for October 7.

Unabated rainfall in Kerala during this monsoon season wreaked havoc, prompting the state authorities to open the shutters of as many as 22 dangerously full dams and reservoirs.

Mammoth flooding, landslides destroyed many parts of the state rendering lakhs of people homeless and displaced who took shelter in over 5,000 relief camps set-up across Kerala.&nbsp;

The destructive deluge claimed nearly 500 lives with an estimated loss to the state worth over Rs 21,000 crore.&nbsp;

Kerala Meteorological Department on Thursday warned of heavy rainfall in the state for the next five days and have issued a district-wise warning, news agency ANI reported.

Kerala Meteorological Department on Thursday warned of heavy rainfall in the state for the next five days and have issued a district-wise warning, news agency ANI reported. "Fishermen have been advised not to venture into the sea for next 2-4 days," K Santosh, Director Kerala Meteorological Department told media. The rainfall is expected to intensify further into a depression in subsequent 36 hours and then move northwestwards to develop into a cyclonic storm before moving northwest towards the coast of Oman, the MeT department noted. "Under the influence of cyclonic circulation which is lying over Southeast Arabian Sea and adjoining Lakshadweep Maldives area, a low-pressure area is expected to form over Southeast Arabian Sea near Lakshadweep during next 24 hours," Santosh added. State authorities today opened 4 shutters of Malampuzha dam in Palakkad region by 9 cm. It is likely to intensify further into a depression in subsequent 36 hours&then move northwestwards&develop into a cyclonic storm&again move in northwest direction towards Oman Coast: K Santosh, Director #Kerala Meteorological Department pic.twitter.com/5VN2h83zrG — ANI (@ANI) October 4, 2018 × Kerala Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan on Wednesday cautioned the state authorities against a warning sounded by the Indian Meteorological Department. CM Vijayan stated that the IMD has "issued a warning about a low-pressure area in the Arabian sea close to Sri Lankan coast," which may develop into a cyclonic storm and hit the state. "The predicted trajectory will be along the coast of Lakshadweep," news agency ANI quoted CM Vijayan who added that a red alert has been sounded in three districts for October 7. Unabated rainfall in Kerala during this monsoon season wreaked havoc, prompting the state authorities to open the shutters of as many as 22 dangerously full dams and reservoirs. Mammoth flooding, landslides destroyed many parts of the state rendering lakhs of people homeless and displaced who took shelter in over 5,000 relief camps set-up across Kerala. The destructive deluge claimed nearly 500 lives with an estimated loss to the state worth over Rs 21,000 crore.

Kerala to receive very heavy rainfall for next 5 days: MeT department

The Indian Meteorological Department has forecast "heavy to very heavy" rains in Maharashtra, especially in the coastal Konkan region, from June 7 to 11.

As per the forecast, there is a possibility of "very heavy" rainfall in Ratnagiri and Sindhudurg districts tomorrow and on June 8.

Also, there is a possibility of very heavy rainfall in Ratnagiri, Sindhudurg, Mumbai, Thane, Raigad and Palghar districts on June 9, while there is a similar forecast for the six districts of Konkan region including Mumbai and surrounding areas on June 10 and 11.

"As per the forecast of the met department, the state calamity relief cell has sounded a high alert at almost all the places in the state especially in the Konkan region. The state calamity relief cell has instructed district administrations to remain on high alert to face any emergency conditions," a government release stated.

Directions have been given to the control rooms in Mantralaya, divisional commissioner's office, district collectors' offices, municipal corporations and tehsildar offices to work round-the-clock, it added.

People in Mumbai can dial 1916 and those outside Mumbai can dial 1077 in case of emergency.

As per the forecast, there is a possibility of "very heavy" rainfall in Ratnagiri and Sindhudurg districts tomorrow and on June 8

The Indian Meteorological Department has forecast "heavy to very heavy" rains in Maharashtra, especially in the coastal Konkan region, from June 7 to 11. As per the forecast, there is a possibility of "very heavy" rainfall in Ratnagiri and Sindhudurg districts tomorrow and on June 8. Also, there is a possibility of very heavy rainfall in Ratnagiri, Sindhudurg, Mumbai, Thane, Raigad and Palghar districts on June 9, while there is a similar forecast for the six districts of Konkan region including Mumbai and surrounding areas on June 10 and 11. "As per the forecast of the met department, the state calamity relief cell has sounded a high alert at almost all the places in the state especially in the Konkan region. The state calamity relief cell has instructed district administrations to remain on high alert to face any emergency conditions," a government release stated. Directions have been given to the control rooms in Mantralaya, divisional commissioner's office, district collectors' offices, municipal corporations and tehsildar offices to work round-the-clock, it added. People in Mumbai can dial 1916 and those outside Mumbai can dial 1077 in case of emergency.

IMD predicts heavy rains in Maharashtra from June 7-11

The Indian Meteorological Department had warned of heatwave conditions in North India last week including Rajasthan, Haryana, Punjab and Delhi.

On Saturday, along with Khajuraho in Madhya Pradesh, &nbsp;Karauli In Rajasthan Sawai Madhavpur, Barmer, Churu, Pokharan, Jaisalmer and Tonk recorded the highest&nbsp;temperature of the season as the mercury hit 47 degrees celsius.&nbsp;

The <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/imd-issues-heatwave-warning-in-delhi-for-next-five-days-138892">IMD</a>&nbsp;warned that&nbsp;the highest temperature could reach 48 degrees.

Khajuraho was hottest at 47 degree&nbsp;celsius, Damoh recorded&nbsp;46.5, &nbsp;Shajapur was&nbsp;47.0 of and Gwalior at 46.6.

In Karauli, the humidity was only 4% and the ultra-violet ray index was also at its peak causing people to stay home.

The heatwave has hit many states of North India including Madhya Pradesh, Rajasthan, Delhi and Haryana and according to reports, it will continue to prevail for another week in north-west and central India.

According to the Met department, a heatwave occurs when the&nbsp;maximum temperature of a station reaches at least 40 degree&nbsp;celsius or more for plains, 37 degree&nbsp;celsius or more for coastal stations and at least 30 degree celsius or more for hilly regions.&nbsp;

The temperature in the national capital was recorded 33 degress celsius by the &nbsp;8:30am on Monday&nbsp;morning and is expected to rise during the day.

The minimum temperature on Sunday was at 26.3 degree&nbsp;celcius and maximum was at 45.8 degrees, Palam observatory said.

The heatwave warning has put millions of residents of these states at the risk of illness with heatstroke and exhaustion becoming common.

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As the Khajuraho was at its hottest, Damoh at 46.5, Shajapur at 47.0 of and Gwalior at 46.6 also baked under the scorching sun

The Indian Meteorological Department had warned of heatwave conditions in North India last week including Rajasthan, Haryana, Punjab and Delhi. On Saturday, along with Khajuraho in Madhya Pradesh, Karauli In Rajasthan Sawai Madhavpur, Barmer, Churu, Pokharan, Jaisalmer and Tonk recorded the highest temperature of the season as the mercury hit 47 degrees celsius. The IMD warned that the highest temperature could reach 48 degrees. Khajuraho was hottest at 47 degree celsius, Damoh recorded 46.5, Shajapur was 47.0 of and Gwalior at 46.6. In Karauli, the humidity was only 4% and the ultra-violet ray index was also at its peak causing people to stay home. The heatwave has hit many states of North India including Madhya Pradesh, Rajasthan, Delhi and Haryana and according to reports, it will continue to prevail for another week in north-west and central India. According to the Met department, a heatwave occurs when the maximum temperature of a station reaches at least 40 degree celsius or more for plains, 37 degree celsius or more for coastal stations and at least 30 degree celsius or more for hilly regions. The temperature in the national capital was recorded 33 degress celsius by the 8:30am on Monday morning and is expected to rise during the day. The minimum temperature on Sunday was at 26.3 degree celcius and maximum was at 45.8 degrees, Palam observatory said. The heatwave warning has put millions of residents of these states at the risk of illness with heatstroke and exhaustion becoming common.

Heatwave in India: Khajuraho in Madhya Pradesh, Karauli in Rajasthan hit 47 degrees

The Indian Meteorological Department has issued a warning for "Menuku" cyclone in the&nbspcoastal regions of Maharashtra and&nbspGoa.

The IMD has stated that Menuku is likely to intensify into a cyclonic storm in the next 24 hours and into a severe cyclonic storm in the subsequent 24 hours.

The department had also warned the fishermen to not to not to venture in the sea.&nbsp

Earlier, the scientists had issued warnings of a thundershower and moderate rain in the coastal region of Andhra Pradesh and Telangana.

An IMD scientist had said, "South-west monsoon has advanced to some parts of south Andaman sea, Nicobar Islands and South-east Bay of Bengal. Due to trough upper cyclonic circulations, light to moderate rain/thundershower likely to occur over Rayalaseema, coastal Andhra Pradesh and Telangana over the next 3-4 days".

Also, warnings have been issued in various parts of Kerala for&nbspheavy, very heavy and extremely heavy rainfall from May 27 to May 29.&nbsp

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Heavy to very heavy rainfall most likely to occur one or two places in <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Kerala?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Kerala</a> on 27 May - 29th May & extremely heavy rainfall at one or two places on May 28th.
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&nbsp

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The weather around 1000 kms of Cyclone <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Mekunu?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Mekunu</a> is rough and wind is very strong, we had issued an advisory to fishermen to not venture in the sea. Some parts of Konkan Goa & southern Maharashtra may get rain and wind, other parts will not be affected: Scientist, IMD Pune <a href="https://t.co/p62cfcgCfS">pic.twitter.com/p62cfcgCfS</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1000014399485169664?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 25, 2018</a></blockquote>
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The IMD has stated that Menuku is likely to intensify into a cyclonic storm in the next 24 hours and into a severe cyclonic storm in the subsequent 24 hours

The Indian Meteorological Department has issued a warning for "Menuku" cyclone in the&nbspcoastal regions of Maharashtra and&nbspGoa. The IMD has stated that Menuku is likely to intensify into a cyclonic storm in the next 24 hours and into a severe cyclonic storm in the subsequent 24 hours. The department had also warned the fishermen to not to not to venture in the sea. Earlier, the scientists had issued warnings of a thundershower and moderate rain in the coastal region of Andhra Pradesh and Telangana. An IMD scientist had said, "South-west monsoon has advanced to some parts of south Andaman sea, Nicobar Islands and South-east Bay of Bengal. Due to trough upper cyclonic circulations, light to moderate rain/thundershower likely to occur over Rayalaseema, coastal Andhra Pradesh and Telangana over the next 3-4 days". Also, warnings have been issued in various parts of Kerala for&nbspheavy, very heavy and extremely heavy rainfall from May 27 to May 29. Heavy to very heavy rainfall most likely to occur one or two places in #Kerala on 27 May - 29th May & extremely heavy rainfall at one or two places on May 28th. — ANI (@ANI) May 25, 2018 × The weather around 1000 kms of Cyclone #Mekunu is rough and wind is very strong, we had issued an advisory to fishermen to not venture in the sea. Some parts of Konkan Goa & southern Maharashtra may get rain and wind, other parts will not be affected: Scientist, IMD Pune pic.twitter.com/p62cfcgCfS — ANI (@ANI) May 25, 2018 ×

IMD issues warning for 'Menuku' cyclone in Maharashtra and Goa

Safdarjung observatory recorded the highest temperature of the season on Tuesday as the mercury hit 44.0 degrees Celsius.

Beating the Monday's&nbsp;temperature Palam observatory also recorded 46 degree Celsius. Both Palam observatory and Safdarjung&nbsp;observatory's records are highest&nbsp;of the season.

Meanwhile, <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/imd-issues-heatwave-warning-in-delhi-for-next-five-days-138892">Indian Meteorological Department issued a warning of a heatwave </a>in Delhi along with four other states of the country for next five days.

The states that will be affected with the severe heatwave are Delhi, Haryana, Chandigarh, Rajasthan and Madhya Pradesh.

According to the warning, the maximum temperature may shoot up to 48 degrees Celsius during those five days.

Delhi recorded the hottest day on Monday with the mercury touching 41 degrees, according to Safdarjung observatory. The minimum temperature of the day was recorded at 26 degrees in the morning.

As per the IMD statement, Uttar Pradesh may witness dust storms along with thunderstorm.

The issued warning of heatwave has put millions of residents of these states at the risk of illness caused by heat such as heat stroke and heat exhaustion.

People are advised to take precautionary measures to avoid such illness.

Safdarjung observatory recorded the highest temperature of the season on Tuesday as the mercury hit 44.0 degrees Celsius

Safdarjung observatory recorded the highest temperature of the season on Tuesday as the mercury hit 44.0 degrees Celsius. Beating the Monday's temperature Palam observatory also recorded 46 degree Celsius. Both Palam observatory and Safdarjung observatory's records are highest of the season. Meanwhile, Indian Meteorological Department issued a warning of a heatwave in Delhi along with four other states of the country for next five days. The states that will be affected with the severe heatwave are Delhi, Haryana, Chandigarh, Rajasthan and Madhya Pradesh. According to the warning, the maximum temperature may shoot up to 48 degrees Celsius during those five days. Delhi recorded the hottest day on Monday with the mercury touching 41 degrees, according to Safdarjung observatory. The minimum temperature of the day was recorded at 26 degrees in the morning. As per the IMD statement, Uttar Pradesh may witness dust storms along with thunderstorm. The issued warning of heatwave has put millions of residents of these states at the risk of illness caused by heat such as heat stroke and heat exhaustion. People are advised to take precautionary measures to avoid such illness.

Delhi sizzles at 44 degrees; Safdarjung records 46 degrees

After recording highest temperature of the season in the national capital, a heatwave warning has been issued by the Indian Meteorological Department on Tuesday for the next five days.

Along with Delhi, Haryana, Chandigarh, Rajasthan and Madhya Pradesh could also face severe heatwave condition.

According to the warning, the maximum temperature may shoot up to 48 degrees Celsius.

Delhi recorded the hottest day on Monday with the mercury touching 44 degrees. The minimum temperature of the day was recorded at 26 degrees in the morning.

Heatwave is considered if maximum temperature of a station reaches at least 40 degrees Celsius or more for Plains, 37 degrees Celsius or more for coastal stations and at least 30 degrees Celsius or more for Hilly regions.&nbsp

As per the IMD statement, Uttar Pradesh may witness dust storms along with thunderstorm.

A week back Delhi was hit by dust and thunderstorms which gave Delhiites relief from the heat, the temperature, however, is climbing ever since.

The storms took lives of over 100 people and several were injured. Heavy property damage was also reported.

On Tuesday, Delhi temperature hit 44 degrees Celsius by 4:30 in the evening.

The issued warning of heatwave has put millions of residents of these states at the risk of illness caused by heat such as heat stroke and heat exhaustion.

People are advised to take precautionary measures to avoid such illness.

Along with Delhi, Haryana, Chandigarh, Rajasthan and Madhya Pradesh could also face severe heatwave condition

After recording highest temperature of the season in the national capital, a heatwave warning has been issued by the Indian Meteorological Department on Tuesday for the next five days. Along with Delhi, Haryana, Chandigarh, Rajasthan and Madhya Pradesh could also face severe heatwave condition. According to the warning, the maximum temperature may shoot up to 48 degrees Celsius. Delhi recorded the hottest day on Monday with the mercury touching 44 degrees. The minimum temperature of the day was recorded at 26 degrees in the morning. Heatwave is considered if maximum temperature of a station reaches at least 40 degrees Celsius or more for Plains, 37 degrees Celsius or more for coastal stations and at least 30 degrees Celsius or more for Hilly regions. As per the IMD statement, Uttar Pradesh may witness dust storms along with thunderstorm. A week back Delhi was hit by dust and thunderstorms which gave Delhiites relief from the heat, the temperature, however, is climbing ever since. The storms took lives of over 100 people and several were injured. Heavy property damage was also reported. On Tuesday, Delhi temperature hit 44 degrees Celsius by 4:30 in the evening. The issued warning of heatwave has put millions of residents of these states at the risk of illness caused by heat such as heat stroke and heat exhaustion. People are advised to take precautionary measures to avoid such illness.

IMD issues heatwave warning in Delhi for next five days

In the wake of the <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/winds-up-to-70-kmph-thunderstorms-to-lash-north-east-india-tomorrow-met-department-135264">warnings issued by the Indian Meteorological Department</a> for heavy thunderstorm and lightning in several parts of North India, the government has issued a set of dos&nbsp;and don'ts for the people

The traffic police have been asked to be prepared with plans to remove obstacles in case of heavy destruction on roads.

The Delhi Metro is also running under extreme caution following the alerts.

"If wind speed is reported in the range of 70-90 kmph then train movement will remain normal but trains will enter with a restricted speed of 40 kmph or less at the platforms on the elevated section.

"If wind speed is reported more than 90 kmph then trains will be put on hold at platforms and no train will enter platform with a speed of more than 15 kmph," a senior DMRC official said.

The government has also asked the commuters to check the weather outside before stepping outdoors.

They have also been asked them to keep a watch on the local weather updates and warnings.

The people residing indoors have been advised to unplug unnecessary electrical appliances.

The advisory asks them to avoid taking a bath or shower from running water. "This is because lightning can travel along pipes. Keep away from doors, windows, fire places, stoves, bath-tubs, or any other electrical charge conductors," the advisory stated.

Vehicles parked or running on the road should keep away from overhead electrical wires, tinned roofs, trees, etc

The commuters have been advised to take shelter under concrete structures. Drivers have been advised to use dippers or parking lights while driving.

At least 124 people have died and over 300 have been injured in parts of north India due to heavy dust storm and thunderstorm last week.

The IMD has issued a warning of heavy rain and thunderstorm in Jammu and Kashmir, Uttarakhand, Himachal Pradesh, Haryana, Delhi, Chandigarh, western Uttar Pradesh, Sikkim and West Bengal.

 
(With inputs from PTI)

The IMD has issued a warning of heavy rain and thunderstorm in several states of north India including Jammu and Kashmir, Uttarakhand, Himachal Pradesh, Haryana, Delhi, Chandigarh, western Uttar Pradesh, Sikkim and West Bengal

In the wake of the warnings issued by the Indian Meteorological Department for heavy thunderstorm and lightning in several parts of North India, the government has issued a set of dos and don'ts for the people The traffic police have been asked to be prepared with plans to remove obstacles in case of heavy destruction on roads. The Delhi Metro is also running under extreme caution following the alerts. "If wind speed is reported in the range of 70-90 kmph then train movement will remain normal but trains will enter with a restricted speed of 40 kmph or less at the platforms on the elevated section. "If wind speed is reported more than 90 kmph then trains will be put on hold at platforms and no train will enter platform with a speed of more than 15 kmph," a senior DMRC official said. The government has also asked the commuters to check the weather outside before stepping outdoors. They have also been asked them to keep a watch on the local weather updates and warnings. The people residing indoors have been advised to unplug unnecessary electrical appliances. The advisory asks them to avoid taking a bath or shower from running water. "This is because lightning can travel along pipes. Keep away from doors, windows, fire places, stoves, bath-tubs, or any other electrical charge conductors," the advisory stated. Vehicles parked or running on the road should keep away from overhead electrical wires, tinned roofs, trees, etc The commuters have been advised to take shelter under concrete structures. Drivers have been advised to use dippers or parking lights while driving. At least 124 people have died and over 300 have been injured in parts of north India due to heavy dust storm and thunderstorm last week. The IMD has issued a warning of heavy rain and thunderstorm in Jammu and Kashmir, Uttarakhand, Himachal Pradesh, Haryana, Delhi, Chandigarh, western Uttar Pradesh, Sikkim and West Bengal. (With inputs from PTI)

Dust and thunderstorms: Dos and don'ts

Rain lashed in Jammu and Kashmir on Monday morning with heavy snowfall turning the valley into a winter wonderland.

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<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WATCH?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WATCH</a>: <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/JammuAndKashmir?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#JammuAndKashmir</a>&#39;s Srinagar turns into a winter wonderland, with the onset of fresh snowfall. <a href="https://t.co/4UM7hb75Dt">pic.twitter.com/4UM7hb75Dt</a>
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Vehicular traffic has also been restricted on Srinagar-Jammu highway.

&quot;Due to slippery road conditions and fresh snowfall at the Jawahar tunnel and other areas, the highway has been closed,&quot; a senior traffic department official said.

According to reports the weather conditions to remain same till Tuesday.

The minimum temperature recorded in the morning was zero in Srinagar and 4.6 in Gulmarg.

This is the first major snowfall in Kashmir of this winter.

The meteorological department has reported January month to be the driest in terms of rainfall in the last 38 years.

Reports say Kargil in the Ladakh region continued to be the coldest place in the state at minus 14 degrees Celsius, while nearby Leh town was also freezing at minus 11.3 degrees Celsius last night.

District of Shimla, Himachal Pradesh also received fresh snowfall.

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<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/HimachalPradesh?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#HimachalPradesh</a> Shimla district&#39;s Nawar Valley receives fresh snowfall <a href="https://t.co/OISPLjBrAz">pic.twitter.com/OISPLjBrAz</a>
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Delhi&#39;s weather also likely to be affected due to the thunderstorm predictions by Indian Meteorological Department.

 
&nbsp;

Vehicular traffic has also been restricted on Sri Nagar-Jammu highway due to the slippery conditions

Rain lashed in Jammu and Kashmir on Monday morning with heavy snowfall turning the valley into a winter wonderland. #WATCH: #JammuAndKashmir's Srinagar turns into a winter wonderland, with the onset of fresh snowfall. pic.twitter.com/4UM7hb75Dt — ANI (@ANI) February 12, 2018 × Vehicular traffic has also been restricted on Srinagar-Jammu highway. "Due to slippery road conditions and fresh snowfall at the Jawahar tunnel and other areas, the highway has been closed," a senior traffic department official said. According to reports the weather conditions to remain same till Tuesday. The minimum temperature recorded in the morning was zero in Srinagar and 4.6 in Gulmarg. This is the first major snowfall in Kashmir of this winter. The meteorological department has reported January month to be the driest in terms of rainfall in the last 38 years. Reports say Kargil in the Ladakh region continued to be the coldest place in the state at minus 14 degrees Celsius, while nearby Leh town was also freezing at minus 11.3 degrees Celsius last night. District of Shimla, Himachal Pradesh also received fresh snowfall. #HimachalPradesh Shimla district's Nawar Valley receives fresh snowfall pic.twitter.com/OISPLjBrAz — ANI (@ANI) February 12, 2018 × Delhi's weather also likely to be affected due to the thunderstorm predictions by Indian Meteorological Department.

Watch: Snowfall in J&K, traffic restricted in Srinagar-Jammu highway

Indian Meteorological Department(IMD) has issued an advisory urging farmers to prepare for &quot;untimely rains and hailstorms&quot;.

On Sunday, several states in&nbsp;the country woke up to sudden change in the weather with heavy rains and hailstorms causing severe crop&nbsp;damage.

Districts which were most hit in Maharashtra included Beed, Osmanabad, Latur, Nanded, Parbhani, Hingoli, Dhule, Nandurbar, Aurangabad among others.

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Rain and hailstorm lashed <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Maharashtra?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Maharashtra</a>&#39;s Jalna, yesterday afternoon. The sudden weather change has partially damaged crops &amp; other property. <a href="https://t.co/Sg1n1xEKYb">pic.twitter.com/Sg1n1xEKYb</a>
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According to the media reports, three farmers have lost&nbsp;their lives during the hailstorms.&nbsp;Rabi crops was reportedly damaged during the unexpected hailstorm. Several farmers lost&nbsp;cotton&nbsp;and wheat crops, reports said.

Agriculture minister of Maharashtra Pandurang Pundalik Fundkar ordered assessment into the crop&nbsp;damage.

Madhya Pradesh also experienced unexpected rain and&nbsp;hailstorm causing crop damage.

Sehore, Vidisha, Hoshangabad, Guna, Rajgarh, Harda, Betul and Raisen districts were among the badly&nbsp;hit districts of Madhya Pradesh.

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Rain and hailstorm lashed Sehore, Vidisha, Hoshangabad, Guna, Rajgarh, Harda, Betul and Raisen districts of <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/MadhyaPradesh?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#MadhyaPradesh</a> yesterday. The sudden weather change has damaged crops in these districts. <a href="https://t.co/TDPVLXy5kc">pic.twitter.com/TDPVLXy5kc</a>
&mdash; ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/962892568265666561?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 12, 2018</a></blockquote>
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Reports said&nbsp;thunderstorms with hails are expected to&nbsp;remain for another two days.&nbsp;

According to the media reports, three farmers have lost their lives during the hailstorms

Indian Meteorological Department(IMD) has issued an advisory urging farmers to prepare for "untimely rains and hailstorms". On Sunday, several states in the country woke up to sudden change in the weather with heavy rains and hailstorms causing severe crop damage. Districts which were most hit in Maharashtra included Beed, Osmanabad, Latur, Nanded, Parbhani, Hingoli, Dhule, Nandurbar, Aurangabad among others. Rain and hailstorm lashed #Maharashtra's Jalna, yesterday afternoon. The sudden weather change has partially damaged crops & other property. pic.twitter.com/Sg1n1xEKYb — ANI (@ANI) February 12, 2018 × According to the media reports, three farmers have lost their lives during the hailstorms. Rabi crops was reportedly damaged during the unexpected hailstorm. Several farmers lost cotton and wheat crops, reports said. Agriculture minister of Maharashtra Pandurang Pundalik Fundkar ordered assessment into the crop damage. Madhya Pradesh also experienced unexpected rain and hailstorm causing crop damage. Sehore, Vidisha, Hoshangabad, Guna, Rajgarh, Harda, Betul and Raisen districts were among the badly hit districts of Madhya Pradesh. Rain and hailstorm lashed Sehore, Vidisha, Hoshangabad, Guna, Rajgarh, Harda, Betul and Raisen districts of #MadhyaPradesh yesterday. The sudden weather change has damaged crops in these districts. pic.twitter.com/TDPVLXy5kc — ANI (@ANI) February 12, 2018 × Reports said thunderstorms with hails are expected to remain for another two days.

Maharashtra, Madhya Pradesh experience unexpected hailstorm; crops damaged

A moderate quake, measuring 4.8 on the Richter Scale, was recorded off the Andaman and Nicobar Islands on Sunday night, the IMD reported.

According to the Indian Meteorological Department, the quake occurred at 9:18 pm at a depth of 10km.

No damage or casualty has been reported so far.

According to the Indian Meteorological Department, the quake occurred at 9:18 pm at a depth of 10km.

A moderate quake, measuring 4.8 on the Richter Scale, was recorded off the Andaman and Nicobar Islands on Sunday night, the IMD reported. According to the Indian Meteorological Department, the quake occurred at 9:18 pm at a depth of 10km. No damage or casualty has been reported so far.

Earthquake of 4.8 magnitude hits Andaman Islands

Delhi has once again witnessed a spike in air pollution levels.

According to the System of Air Quality and Weather Forecasting And Research (SAFAR), the air quality is reported to be &#39;very poor&#39; since today morning.

The SAFAR forecast said that PM 10 was recorded at 289 and PM 2.5 at 177. The minimum temperature recorded by the Met department was at 8.2 degrees Celsius.

On December 8, the air quality index was 194, which is &#39;moderate&#39;, according to the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB).

This was the first time in two months that the air quality had improved to a large extent. It remained in the &#39;moderate&#39; category till December 10.

Due to decreased visibility, at least ten trains were cancelled and 17 were delayed. Two others have been rescheduled. The visibility was down to 1,200 metres.

On Sunday, around 19 trains were cancelled and 19 others were delayed, due to fog in several parts of northern India. Seven of them were rescheduled.

An official at Indian Meteorological Department (IMD) said, &quot;There is a possibility of light rains in the evening today. The maximum temperature is expected to hover around 27 degrees Celsius.

The humidity level recorded at 8.30 a.m was 92 percent.

The minimum temperature recorded yesterday was at 7.4 degrees Celsius. The maximum temperature settled at 27.2 degrees Celsius.&nbsp;

The SAFAR forecast said that PM 10 was recorded at 289 and PM 2.5 at 177. The minimum temperature recorded by the Met department was at 8.2 degrees Celsius

Delhi has once again witnessed a spike in air pollution levels. According to the System of Air Quality and Weather Forecasting And Research (SAFAR), the air quality is reported to be 'very poor' since today morning. The SAFAR forecast said that PM 10 was recorded at 289 and PM 2.5 at 177. The minimum temperature recorded by the Met department was at 8.2 degrees Celsius. On December 8, the air quality index was 194, which is 'moderate', according to the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB). This was the first time in two months that the air quality had improved to a large extent. It remained in the 'moderate' category till December 10. Due to decreased visibility, at least ten trains were cancelled and 17 were delayed. Two others have been rescheduled. The visibility was down to 1,200 metres. On Sunday, around 19 trains were cancelled and 19 others were delayed, due to fog in several parts of northern India. Seven of them were rescheduled. An official at Indian Meteorological Department (IMD) said, "There is a possibility of light rains in the evening today. The maximum temperature is expected to hover around 27 degrees Celsius. The humidity level recorded at 8.30 a.m was 92 percent. The minimum temperature recorded yesterday was at 7.4 degrees Celsius. The maximum temperature settled at 27.2 degrees Celsius.

Air quality in Delhi drops from 'moderate' to 'very poor'

The Indian Meteorological Department (IMD) has predicted heavy rains to hit Odisha starting today evening. A depression over the southeast Bay of Bengal is likely to intensify further into a deep depression in the next 24 hours and triggering heavy rains in various parts of the state.

As many as 11 districts in Odisha are likely to get affected by the torrential downpour. While the rains will continue till December 11, the associated weather impacts will persist till December 13, noted a release issued by the Regional Met Department.&nbsp;

&quot;Depression is likely to reach South Odisha and North Andhra Pradesh coast by around December 9. Rainfall may start tonight and will continue till December 10. Fishermen are advised not to venture into the sea from December 7 to December 10&quot;, said Sarat Chandra Sahu, an IMD official.

According to a Skymet&nbsp;weather report, &quot;the depression persisting over the southeast Bay of Bengal has moved northwards in the past six hours. Presently the speed of squally winds is 50 to 55 kmph. The cloud formation is showing signs of intensification and hence this system is likely to concentrate into a deep depression in the next 12 hours&quot;. &quot;It will move northwards inching close to the coast. Wind shear and sea surface temperatures will continue to favour its growth. In wake of this weather system, light rainfall is likely to commence over North Coastal Andhra Pradesh, Odisha and Gangetic West Bengal from the night of December 7,&quot; it further noted.&nbsp;

Moderate rains may also to hit the Gangetic West Bengal and states like Nagaland, Manipur, Mizoram, and Tripura by December 9 or 10. Heavy to very heavy rains may not occur. &quot;Tamil Nadu will be spared by the weather system,&quot; noted Skymet.&nbsp;

A depression over the southeast Bay of Bengal is likely to intensify further into a deep depression in the next 24 hours

The Indian Meteorological Department (IMD) has predicted heavy rains to hit Odisha starting today evening. A depression over the southeast Bay of Bengal is likely to intensify further into a deep depression in the next 24 hours and triggering heavy rains in various parts of the state. As many as 11 districts in Odisha are likely to get affected by the torrential downpour. While the rains will continue till December 11, the associated weather impacts will persist till December 13, noted a release issued by the Regional Met Department. "Depression is likely to reach South Odisha and North Andhra Pradesh coast by around December 9. Rainfall may start tonight and will continue till December 10. Fishermen are advised not to venture into the sea from December 7 to December 10", said Sarat Chandra Sahu, an IMD official. According to a Skymet weather report, "the depression persisting over the southeast Bay of Bengal has moved northwards in the past six hours. Presently the speed of squally winds is 50 to 55 kmph. The cloud formation is showing signs of intensification and hence this system is likely to concentrate into a deep depression in the next 12 hours". "It will move northwards inching close to the coast. Wind shear and sea surface temperatures will continue to favour its growth. In wake of this weather system, light rainfall is likely to commence over North Coastal Andhra Pradesh, Odisha and Gangetic West Bengal from the night of December 7," it further noted. Moderate rains may also to hit the Gangetic West Bengal and states like Nagaland, Manipur, Mizoram, and Tripura by December 9 or 10. Heavy to very heavy rains may not occur. "Tamil Nadu will be spared by the weather system," noted Skymet.

Heavy rains to hit Odisha today evening, Indian Meteorological Department warns

The cyclone Ockhi&nbsp;is likely to lose its intensity gradually from Sunday, said the Indian Meteorological Department (IMD).

&quot;The very severe cyclonic storm &#39;Ockhi&#39; over Lakshadweep area and adjoining Southeast Arabian Sea further moved northwestwards with a speed of 15 kmph during past 6 hours and lay centred at 2330 hrs IST of December 2, 2017 over the southeast Arabian Sea near Latitude 11.1&ordm; N and Longitude 69.7&ordm; E, about 330 km west of Amini Divi. The system is very likely to weaken gradually from today the December 3, 2017, morning,&quot; said IMD.

Moderate rain is also expected at a few places in Tamil Nadu &amp; Pondicherry during next 24 hours. Fishermen are asked not to venture into deep sea of north Tamil Nadu &amp; South Andhra coast till December 25th: S Balachandran, India Meteorological Department

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Moderate rain is expected at a few places in Tamil Nadu &amp; Pondicherry during next 24 hours. Fishermen are asked not to venture into deep sea of north Tamil Nadu &amp; South Andhra coast till December 25th: S Balachandran, MET department <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/CycloneOckhi?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#CycloneOckhi</a> <a href="https://t.co/n06CR1giuC">pic.twitter.com/n06CR1giuC</a>
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The storm has so far claimed 18 lives&nbsp;and has affected&nbsp;Kerala, Tamil Nadu, Lakshwadeep and neighbouring Sri Lanka.

Kerala and Tamil Nadu have declared compensation to the families of those who died in the storm.

Kerala Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan had also decided to ask the Centre to declare the Ockhi cyclone as a &#39;national calamity&#39;.

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Kerala govt has decided to ask the Union government to declare <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/OckhiCyclone?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#OckhiCyclone</a> a national calamity. The Chief Secretary has been entrusted to prepare the memorandum in this regard: Kerala CM Pinarayi Vijayan <a href="https://t.co/pyCrT3dkva">pic.twitter.com/pyCrT3dkva</a>
&mdash; ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/937006103254130688?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 2, 2017</a></blockquote>
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On Saturday, several stranded fishermen were rescued during the massive search operations carried out by INS ships.

Along with air effort, six warships and two coast guard ships were deployed for the rescue operation, confirmed Defence Minister Nirmala Sitharaman.&nbsp;

Sitharaman further added that, 97 are yet to be rescued, 71 from Tamil Nadu have been rescued till now. The Coast Guard is at it, with all its strength to rescue the rest. Hoping for good news soon.

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Claims of thousand fishermen stranded is false. Correct figures- 97 are yet to be rescued, 71 from TN have been rescued till now. The Coast Guard is at it, with all its strength to rescue the rest. Hoping for good news soon: Defence Minister Nirmala Sitharaman <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/CycloneOckhi?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#CycloneOckhi</a>
&mdash; ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/936977995469791232?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 2, 2017</a></blockquote>
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The cyclone, which originated from Kanyakumari, made its way to Lakshadweep islands on Saturday morning causing massive destruction and claiming 14 lives.

It has intensified into &quot;severe cyclonic storm&quot;&nbsp;with wind reaching up to the speed of 60 to 70 km.

The deadly storm had also killed seven people in neighbouring Sri Lanka and affected the lives of nearly 20,000 people.

The storm has so far claimed 18 lives and has affected?Kerala, Tamil Nadu, Lakshwadeep and neighbouring Sri Lanka.

The cyclone Ockhi is likely to lose its intensity gradually from Sunday, said the Indian Meteorological Department (IMD). "The very severe cyclonic storm 'Ockhi' over Lakshadweep area and adjoining Southeast Arabian Sea further moved northwestwards with a speed of 15 kmph during past 6 hours and lay centred at 2330 hrs IST of December 2, 2017 over the southeast Arabian Sea near Latitude 11.1º N and Longitude 69.7º E, about 330 km west of Amini Divi. The system is very likely to weaken gradually from today the December 3, 2017, morning," said IMD. Moderate rain is also expected at a few places in Tamil Nadu & Pondicherry during next 24 hours. Fishermen are asked not to venture into deep sea of north Tamil Nadu & South Andhra coast till December 25th: S Balachandran, India Meteorological Department Moderate rain is expected at a few places in Tamil Nadu & Pondicherry during next 24 hours. Fishermen are asked not to venture into deep sea of north Tamil Nadu & South Andhra coast till December 25th: S Balachandran, MET department #CycloneOckhi pic.twitter.com/n06CR1giuC — ANI (@ANI) December 3, 2017 × The storm has so far claimed 18 lives and has affected Kerala, Tamil Nadu, Lakshwadeep and neighbouring Sri Lanka. Kerala and Tamil Nadu have declared compensation to the families of those who died in the storm. Kerala Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan had also decided to ask the Centre to declare the Ockhi cyclone as a 'national calamity'. Kerala govt has decided to ask the Union government to declare #OckhiCyclone a national calamity. The Chief Secretary has been entrusted to prepare the memorandum in this regard: Kerala CM Pinarayi Vijayan pic.twitter.com/pyCrT3dkva — ANI (@ANI) December 2, 2017 × On Saturday, several stranded fishermen were rescued during the massive search operations carried out by INS ships. Along with air effort, six warships and two coast guard ships were deployed for the rescue operation, confirmed Defence Minister Nirmala Sitharaman. Sitharaman further added that, 97 are yet to be rescued, 71 from Tamil Nadu have been rescued till now. The Coast Guard is at it, with all its strength to rescue the rest. Hoping for good news soon. Claims of thousand fishermen stranded is false. Correct figures- 97 are yet to be rescued, 71 from TN have been rescued till now. The Coast Guard is at it, with all its strength to rescue the rest. Hoping for good news soon: Defence Minister Nirmala Sitharaman #CycloneOckhi — ANI (@ANI) December 2, 2017 × The cyclone, which originated from Kanyakumari, made its way to Lakshadweep islands on Saturday morning causing massive destruction and claiming 14 lives. It has intensified into "severe cyclonic storm" with wind reaching up to the speed of 60 to 70 km. The deadly storm had also killed seven people in neighbouring Sri Lanka and affected the lives of nearly 20,000 people.

Cyclone Ockhi likely to weaken: Indian Meteorological Department

Cyclone Ockhi battered Lakshadweep islands on Saturday causing severe destruction and claiming 14 lives with many fishermen still trapped at sea.

Several houses were damaged, coconut trees got uprooted and communication lines were also disrupted due to the rains accompanied by strong winds lashed in the island.

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Early morning visuals from Lakshadweep; destruction caused by strong winds &amp; high tides. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/CycloneOckhi?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#CycloneOckhi</a> <a href="https://t.co/kO26bbSjlK">pic.twitter.com/kO26bbSjlK</a>
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Over 200 fisherman was rescued by National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA), coast guard and Navy.

Also read:<a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/cyclone-ockhi-will-further-intensify-in-next-24-hours-india-meteorological-department-25653"> Cyclone Ockhi will further intensify in next 24 hours: India Meteorological Department</a>

The cyclone-hit areas have also been evacuated by thousands of people.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi has spoken to the chief minister of Tamil Nadu, assuring him of support operations including necessary funds.

According to Indian Meteorological Department (IMD) said that the cyclone is expected to travel north towards Mumbai and Gujarat in next 48 hours, though it may lose its intensity.

Fishermen have also been warned not go to the sea for the next few days as waves are likely to be 12-15 feet high.

Cyclone Ockhi has also created massive destruction and claiming lives of atleast 10 people in Tamil Nadu and Kerala.

Now, it is expected to travel north towards Mumbai and Gujarat in the next 48 hours though it may lose its intensity, said Indian Meteorological Department (IMD)

The deadly storm has killed seven people in neighbouring Sri Lanka and affected the lives of nearly 20,000 people.

Several houses were damaged, coconut trees got uprooted and communication lines were also disrupted due to the rains accompanied by strong winds lashed in the island

Cyclone Ockhi battered Lakshadweep islands on Saturday causing severe destruction and claiming 14 lives with many fishermen still trapped at sea. Several houses were damaged, coconut trees got uprooted and communication lines were also disrupted due to the rains accompanied by strong winds lashed in the island. Early morning visuals from Lakshadweep; destruction caused by strong winds & high tides. #CycloneOckhi pic.twitter.com/kO26bbSjlK — ANI (@ANI) December 2, 2017 × Over 200 fisherman was rescued by National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA), coast guard and Navy. Also read: Cyclone Ockhi will further intensify in next 24 hours: India Meteorological Department The cyclone-hit areas have also been evacuated by thousands of people. Prime Minister Narendra Modi has spoken to the chief minister of Tamil Nadu, assuring him of support operations including necessary funds. According to Indian Meteorological Department (IMD) said that the cyclone is expected to travel north towards Mumbai and Gujarat in next 48 hours, though it may lose its intensity. Fishermen have also been warned not go to the sea for the next few days as waves are likely to be 12-15 feet high. Cyclone Ockhi has also created massive destruction and claiming lives of atleast 10 people in Tamil Nadu and Kerala. Now, it is expected to travel north towards Mumbai and Gujarat in the next 48 hours though it may lose its intensity, said Indian Meteorological Department (IMD) The deadly storm has killed seven people in neighbouring Sri Lanka and affected the lives of nearly 20,000 people.

At least 14 killed as cyclone Ockhi batters Lakshwadeep

Cyclone Ockhi barrelled into the Lakshwadeep islands on Saturday after drenching the neighbouring states of Kerala and Tamil Nadu, claiming so far around 14 lives with many fishermen still feared trapped at sea.

Authorities including the National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA), Coast Guard and Navy have rescued about 223 fishermen and evacuated thousands of people from cyclone-hit areas, officials said, as they continued their operations on Saturday.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi has spoken to the chief minister of Tamil Nadu, assuring him of support operations including necessary funds, according to local media.

Ockhi is expected to travel north towards Mumbai and Gujarat in the next 48 hours, according to Indian Meteorological Department (IMD) Director S. Sudevan in Trivandrum, though it is likely to lose intensity.

&quot;The intensity of the wind may come down and the cyclone could change into depression,&quot; Sudevan said adding fishermen have been warned not go to the sea for the next few days as waves are likely to be 3-5 metres (12-15 feet) high.

Also read:<a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/cyclone-ockhi-will-further-intensify-in-next-24-hours-india-meteorological-department-25653"> Cyclone Ockhi will further intensify in next 24 hours: India Meteorological Department</a>

Coast Guard and Navy have rescued about 223 fishermen and evacuated thousands of people from cyclone hit areas

Cyclone Ockhi barrelled into the Lakshwadeep islands on Saturday after drenching the neighbouring states of Kerala and Tamil Nadu, claiming so far around 14 lives with many fishermen still feared trapped at sea. Authorities including the National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA), Coast Guard and Navy have rescued about 223 fishermen and evacuated thousands of people from cyclone-hit areas, officials said, as they continued their operations on Saturday. Prime Minister Narendra Modi has spoken to the chief minister of Tamil Nadu, assuring him of support operations including necessary funds, according to local media. Ockhi is expected to travel north towards Mumbai and Gujarat in the next 48 hours, according to Indian Meteorological Department (IMD) Director S. Sudevan in Trivandrum, though it is likely to lose intensity. "The intensity of the wind may come down and the cyclone could change into depression," Sudevan said adding fishermen have been warned not go to the sea for the next few days as waves are likely to be 3-5 metres (12-15 feet) high. Also read: Cyclone Ockhi will further intensify in next 24 hours: India Meteorological Department

Cyclone Ockhi batters Lakshwadeep coast killing 14, many missing

The Indian <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/heavy-chennai-rain-brings-city-to-a-halt-schools-and-colleges-shut-on-tuesday-one-dead-in-thanjavur-23174">Meteorological Department (IMD) has forecast heavy</a> rains in Tamil Nadu in the next 24 hours.

Chennai has been <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/torrential-overnight-chennai-rains-bring-city-suburbs-to-grinding-halt-23430">hit by continuous downpour since&nbsp;Thursday</a> evening with the city completely waterlogged.

State minister KP Anbalagan said: &quot;Rain has come all of a sudden. This is nature&#39;s fury, you must understand. We are working on a war footing to clear the water. &quot;

He also assured that the state government has&nbsp;worked out a Rs 600 crore <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/tamil-nadu-well-prepared-to-tackle-rains-like-foreign-countries-say-ministers-23216" target="_blank">master plan to drain out the water</a>.&nbsp;

Chief minister Edappadi K Palanisamy visited RK Nagar which has been badly hit, along with other state&nbsp;ministers.&nbsp;

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Rain has come all of a sudden. This is nature&#39;s fury, you must understand. We&#39;re working on a war footing to clear water:KP Anbalagan,TN Min <a href="https://t.co/4YLpIIQo3l">pic.twitter.com/4YLpIIQo3l</a>
&mdash; ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/926378367233884161?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 3, 2017</a></blockquote>
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Now we have worked out Rs 600 crore master plan which will work in various ways to drain out the water: K P Anbalagan,<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/TamilNadu?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#TamilNadu</a> Minister
&mdash; ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/926378603197198336?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 3, 2017</a></blockquote>
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Tamil Nadu Chief Minister Edappadi K Palanisamy visited RK Nagar along with state Ministers, interacted with people affected <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/ChennaiRains?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#ChennaiRains</a> <a href="https://t.co/BSK3JfTzPN">pic.twitter.com/BSK3JfTzPN</a>
&mdash; ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/926405217561612289?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 3, 2017</a></blockquote>
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A state minister assured that they have worked out Rs 600 crore master plan to drain out the water?

The Indian Meteorological Department (IMD) has forecast heavy rains in Tamil Nadu in the next 24 hours. Chennai has been hit by continuous downpour since Thursday evening with the city completely waterlogged. State minister KP Anbalagan said: "Rain has come all of a sudden. This is nature's fury, you must understand. We are working on a war footing to clear the water. " He also assured that the state government has worked out a Rs 600 crore master plan to drain out the water. Chief minister Edappadi K Palanisamy visited RK Nagar which has been badly hit, along with other state ministers. Rain has come all of a sudden. This is nature's fury, you must understand. We're working on a war footing to clear water:KP Anbalagan,TN Min pic.twitter.com/4YLpIIQo3l — ANI (@ANI) November 3, 2017 × Now we have worked out Rs 600 crore master plan which will work in various ways to drain out the water: K P Anbalagan,#TamilNadu Minister — ANI (@ANI) November 3, 2017 × Tamil Nadu Chief Minister Edappadi K Palanisamy visited RK Nagar along with state Ministers, interacted with people affected #ChennaiRains pic.twitter.com/BSK3JfTzPN — ANI (@ANI) November 3, 2017 ×

Watch: Indian Meteorological Department forecasts heavy rains in Chennai in next 24 hours

Torrential overnight rains for about ten hours brought this metropolis and neighbouring districts of Kancheepuram and Tiruvallur to a grinding halt, paralysing normal life completely.

Schools and colleges, which are closed since 31 October due to rains, have been shut today as well in Chennai, Kancheepuram and Tiruvallur districts.

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Incessant rains continue to disrupt normal life in Chennai, visuals of water-logged streets from Boat Club area. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/ChennaiRains?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#ChennaiRains</a> <a href="https://t.co/pnhDw3oDZs">pic.twitter.com/pnhDw3oDZs</a>
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The Met department forecast heavy to very heavy showers in north coastal Tamil Nadu till tomorrow.

It said yesterday&#39;s low pressure area over Sri Lanka and adjoining south West Bay of Bengal now lies over South West Bay of Bengal off the Lankan and Tamil Nadu coast.

&quot;Rainfall activity will continue over north coastal Tamil Nadu with heavy to very heavy rain over Tiruvallur, Kancheepuram and Chennai districts during the next 24 hours,&quot; a special bulletin issued at 8.30 am said today.

The mild, intermittent showers post noon yesterday became moderate and then heavy in some pockets last night inundating several more neighbourhoods including West Mambalam and the Guindy Industrial Estate.

As a result, bus, taxi, auto and suburban train services were affected.

While heavy waterlogging hindered free movement of vehicles, a &quot;signalling snag,&quot; hit train services between the St Thomas Mount and Kodambakkam suburban section since 9.30 pm. Services were restored at 3.20 am today, Railway officials said.

Heavy traffic congestion and serpentine queue of vehicles were seen at the arterial Kathipara grade separator, Guindy intersection, Saidapet and all along till Velachery through the Raj Bhavan point.

Flight operations at the city airport were normal, airport officials said.

Chennai and Nungambakkam registered 18 cm rain and Meenambakkam in the southern suburb recorded 14 cm, till 8.30 am today, according to the Met department. 
&nbsp;

Schools and colleges will remain shut in Chennai, Kancheepuram and Tiruvallur districts

Torrential overnight rains for about ten hours brought this metropolis and neighbouring districts of Kancheepuram and Tiruvallur to a grinding halt, paralysing normal life completely. Schools and colleges, which are closed since 31 October due to rains, have been shut today as well in Chennai, Kancheepuram and Tiruvallur districts. Incessant rains continue to disrupt normal life in Chennai, visuals of water-logged streets from Boat Club area. #ChennaiRains pic.twitter.com/pnhDw3oDZs — ANI (@ANI) November 3, 2017 × The Met department forecast heavy to very heavy showers in north coastal Tamil Nadu till tomorrow. It said yesterday's low pressure area over Sri Lanka and adjoining south West Bay of Bengal now lies over South West Bay of Bengal off the Lankan and Tamil Nadu coast. "Rainfall activity will continue over north coastal Tamil Nadu with heavy to very heavy rain over Tiruvallur, Kancheepuram and Chennai districts during the next 24 hours," a special bulletin issued at 8.30 am said today. The mild, intermittent showers post noon yesterday became moderate and then heavy in some pockets last night inundating several more neighbourhoods including West Mambalam and the Guindy Industrial Estate. As a result, bus, taxi, auto and suburban train services were affected. While heavy waterlogging hindered free movement of vehicles, a "signalling snag," hit train services between the St Thomas Mount and Kodambakkam suburban section since 9.30 pm. Services were restored at 3.20 am today, Railway officials said. Heavy traffic congestion and serpentine queue of vehicles were seen at the arterial Kathipara grade separator, Guindy intersection, Saidapet and all along till Velachery through the Raj Bhavan point. Flight operations at the city airport were normal, airport officials said. Chennai and Nungambakkam registered 18 cm rain and Meenambakkam in the southern suburb recorded 14 cm, till 8.30 am today, according to the Met department.

Torrential overnight rains bring Chennai, neighbouring districts to halt

The deputy director of Indian Meteorological Department, Dr. Medha Khole, filed a case of fraud against her 60-year-old female cook, Nirmala Yadav, for allegedly lying about her caste when she sought a job at her home.

The complaint was lodged with the Sinhagad police station in Pune.

In the FIR, Medha reports that the cook falsely claimed to be a Brahmin. On discovering that she was from a lower caste, Medha&#39;s religious sentiments were hurt which led to filing of the complaint.

In the FIR filed with the police, Medha claims that the cook had falsely claimed to be a Brahmin, an upper caste. On discovering the false identity, Medha&#39;s religious sentiments were hurt.

In her statement, Medha claims that she was searching for a married Brahmin woman in 2016 to cook for Gauri-Ganesh Festival and death anniversary of her parents.&nbsp;

That is when Nirmala Yadav approached her and allegedly told her name to be Nirmala &quot;Kulkarni&quot;. Kulkarni is identified as a Brahmin surname. She was hired.

A year later, a priest who visited Medha&#39;s house told her that the cook was not a Brahmin.&nbsp;The scientist then went to the cook&#39;s house to confront her. She learned that Nirmala is not a Brahmin and moreover,&nbsp;a widow.&nbsp;

On the other hand, the cook, Nirmala claims that Medha approached her on her own, asked her name and that there were no questions raised about her caste. She states that she has&nbsp;cooked in the house only on three occasions--twice during the Gauri Ganesh praying ceremony and once for the death anniversary.&nbsp;

Nirmala claims that Medha visited her house on the evening of 6th September and created a huge havoc while investigating. Medha allegedly hit Nirmala. 
 
The police station has declared it a&nbsp;non-cognizable offence.

The cook claims that the scientist visited her house to create a havoc and allegedly hit her

The deputy director of Indian Meteorological Department, Dr. Medha Khole, filed a case of fraud against her 60-year-old female cook, Nirmala Yadav, for allegedly lying about her caste when she sought a job at her home. The complaint was lodged with the Sinhagad police station in Pune. In the FIR, Medha reports that the cook falsely claimed to be a Brahmin. On discovering that she was from a lower caste, Medha's religious sentiments were hurt which led to filing of the complaint. In the FIR filed with the police, Medha claims that the cook had falsely claimed to be a Brahmin, an upper caste. On discovering the false identity, Medha's religious sentiments were hurt. In her statement, Medha claims that she was searching for a married Brahmin woman in 2016 to cook for Gauri-Ganesh Festival and death anniversary of her parents. That is when Nirmala Yadav approached her and allegedly told her name to be Nirmala "Kulkarni". Kulkarni is identified as a Brahmin surname. She was hired. A year later, a priest who visited Medha's house told her that the cook was not a Brahmin. The scientist then went to the cook's house to confront her. She learned that Nirmala is not a Brahmin and moreover, a widow. On the other hand, the cook, Nirmala claims that Medha approached her on her own, asked her name and that there were no questions raised about her caste. She states that she has cooked in the house only on three occasions--twice during the Gauri Ganesh praying ceremony and once for the death anniversary. Nirmala claims that Medha visited her house on the evening of 6th September and created a huge havoc while investigating. Medha allegedly hit Nirmala. The police station has declared it a non-cognizable offence.

On discovering her cook was posing as Brahmin, Pune scientist files police complaint

India looks likely to receive higher monsoon rainfall than previously forecast as concern over the El Nino weather condition has eased, the chief of the weather office said on Tuesday, raising prospects of higher farm and economic growth.

The state-run India Meteorological Department on April 18 forecast this year&#39;s monsoon rains at 96 per cent of the 50-year average of 89 cm.

&quot;Things have changed for the good since then,&quot; K.J. Ramesh, director general of the state-run India Meteorological Department, told Reuters in an interview.

The monsoon delivers about 70 per cent of India&#39;s annual rainfall, critical for crops such as rice, cane, corn, cotton and soybeans because nearly half of the country&#39;s farmland lacks irrigation.

&quot;We assessed 96 per cent based on the climatological conditions up to March. Now, conditions are becoming favourable for an improvement over our April 18 estimate,&quot; Ramesh said.

Australia&#39;s Bureau of Meteorology recently said there were signs of concerns easing over El Nino.

El Nino, a warming of ocean surface temperatures in the eastern and central Pacific that typically occurs every few years and was linked to crop damage, fires and flash floods, faded in 2016.

The establishment phase of the monsoon north of the equator has already started, and the Indian Ocean Dipole phenomenon - which counters the impact of an El Nino - will have an incremental positive effect on the Indian monsoon, Ramesh said.

Pre-monsoon showers have already hit certain dry areas in the southern part of the country, he said, bringing much-needed relief to farmers ahead of the start of the four-month monsoon season beginning June.

India defines average, or normal, rainfall as between 96 per cent and 104 per cent of the 50-year average.

Jettisoning a statistical method introduced under British colonial rule in the 1920s, the India Meteorology Department has for the first time relied on the so-called dynamic model to improve the accuracy of one of the world&#39;s most vital weather forecasts.

The new system, based on US model tweaked for India, requires large computing power to generate three-dimensional models to help predict how the monsoon is likely to develop.

Experts say better forecasting could help India raise its farm output by nearly 15 per cent, by helping farmers tweak the best time to sow, irrigate or apply fertiliser, and, if rains fail, plan state-wide measures.

This would be a major boon for a country already either the world&#39;s biggest or second-biggest producer and consumer of rice, wheat, sugar and cotton.

Higher farm output will raise the income of some 600 million people who depend on farming for their livelihood, and boost demand for an array of goods and services.

(Reuters)

Pre-monsoon showers have already hit certain dry areas in the southern part of the country

India looks likely to receive higher monsoon rainfall than previously forecast as concern over the El Nino weather condition has eased, the chief of the weather office said on Tuesday, raising prospects of higher farm and economic growth. The state-run India Meteorological Department on April 18 forecast this year's monsoon rains at 96 per cent of the 50-year average of 89 cm. "Things have changed for the good since then," K.J. Ramesh, director general of the state-run India Meteorological Department, told Reuters in an interview. The monsoon delivers about 70 per cent of India's annual rainfall, critical for crops such as rice, cane, corn, cotton and soybeans because nearly half of the country's farmland lacks irrigation. "We assessed 96 per cent based on the climatological conditions up to March. Now, conditions are becoming favourable for an improvement over our April 18 estimate," Ramesh said. Australia's Bureau of Meteorology recently said there were signs of concerns easing over El Nino. El Nino, a warming of ocean surface temperatures in the eastern and central Pacific that typically occurs every few years and was linked to crop damage, fires and flash floods, faded in 2016. The establishment phase of the monsoon north of the equator has already started, and the Indian Ocean Dipole phenomenon - which counters the impact of an El Nino - will have an incremental positive effect on the Indian monsoon, Ramesh said. Pre-monsoon showers have already hit certain dry areas in the southern part of the country, he said, bringing much-needed relief to farmers ahead of the start of the four-month monsoon season beginning June. India defines average, or normal, rainfall as between 96 per cent and 104 per cent of the 50-year average. Jettisoning a statistical method introduced under British colonial rule in the 1920s, the India Meteorology Department has for the first time relied on the so-called dynamic model to improve the accuracy of one of the world's most vital weather forecasts. The new system, based on US model tweaked for India, requires large computing power to generate three-dimensional models to help predict how the monsoon is likely to develop. Experts say better forecasting could help India raise its farm output by nearly 15 per cent, by helping farmers tweak the best time to sow, irrigate or apply fertiliser, and, if rains fail, plan state-wide measures. This would be a major boon for a country already either the world's biggest or second-biggest producer and consumer of rice, wheat, sugar and cotton. Higher farm output will raise the income of some 600 million people who depend on farming for their livelihood, and boost demand for an array of goods and services. (Reuters)

India to receive higher rainfall than previously forecast: Met