Heavy Rain Alert: IMD warns travellers to avoid these places

North India on High Alert as Heavy Rains Trigger Flood and Landslide Warnings (Image: PTI)

The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued an orange alert for Delhi, Gurugram, and several parts of north India as heavy rainfall lashed the region on Monday, September 2, 2025. The advisory warns of waterlogging, traffic congestion, and possible flight delays as showers intensify over the next 24 hours.

Delhi reels under heavy showers as IMD warns of more rain; Yamuna nears danger mark. (Image: PTI)

Delhi: Yamuna Water Level Near Danger Mark, Commuters Warned

In Delhi, the IMD has issued an orange alert for September 2, predicting heavy to very heavy rainfall across the city. Monday’s downpour left parts of central and east Delhi waterlogged, choking traffic on arterial routes and forcing diversions.

Adding to concerns, the Yamuna’s water level has been rising steadily and is now close to the danger mark of 205.33 meters, raising the risk of flooding in low-lying areas. The Delhi government has asked residents near the floodplains to remain cautious and be ready to move to safer zones if the river swells further.

The traffic police have also appealed to commuters to avoid flooded underpasses and keep travel limited to essential needs. Authorities said that more pumps and relief teams are on standby as the city braces for another spell of intense rain.

Gurugram residents face knee-deep water, office commute hit hard after downpour. (Image: PTI)

Gurugram: Remote Work, Online Classes, and Power Cuts

Gurugram recorded over 100 mm of rain between 3 pm and 7 pm on September 1, flooding major city roads within hours. Following IMD’s orange alert for September 2, the district administration asked companies to allow employees to work from home and shifted schools to online classes for the day.

Despite these measures, daily life took a hit as Cyber Hub, Golf Course Road, and Sohna Road remained choked with waterlogging, while frequent power cuts added to the frustration of residents. Authorities have urged commuters to stay off the roads unless absolutely necessary and keep emergency numbers handy as more heavy rain is expected through the week.

Torrential rains spark landslide warnings across hilly districts of Uttarakhand. (Image: PTI)

Uttarakhand: Cloudbursts and Flash Flood Risk

In Uttarakhand, the IMD has sounded a red alert for heavy to very heavy rainfall in districts like Dehradun, Tehri, and Nainital. Tourists and pilgrims heading to the Char Dham circuit have been cautioned against unnecessary travel due to the risk of landslides and flash floods.

Authorities have also advised trekkers and adventure travellers to check local weather updates and avoid venturing into high-altitude zones until conditions stabilise.

Heavy rainfall triggers flood fears in Punjab (Image: PTI)

Punjab, Haryana, and Chandigarh: Widespread Showers

The weather office has issued an orange alert across Punjab, Haryana, and Chandigarh, forecasting intense showers accompanied by thunderstorms. Farmers have been asked to take precautions to prevent crop damage, while city administrations are preparing for traffic slowdowns and power outages in some areas.

Rising rivers and landslides cut off roads, Himachal reels under relentless rain. (Image: PTI)

Himachal Pradesh: Landslide Warnings

Himachal Pradesh is also bracing for landslides and mudslides as continuous rainfall is expected in Shimla, Solan, and Kullu. The state disaster management authority has requested tourists to avoid hilly drives and remain indoors where possible.

What This Means for Travellers and Residents

With heavy rainfall hitting large parts of North India, experts advise travellers to plan ahead, check weather advisories before stepping out, and avoid non-essential journeys. In cities like Delhi and Gurugram, carrying umbrellas, waterproof footwear, and allowing extra commute time will be essential over the next two days.

Waterlogging, traffic jams, and power cuts bring the Capital to a standstill. (Image: PTI)

For those in hilly states, the IMD has reiterated that the combination of saturated soil, continuous downpours, and steep terrain significantly raises the risk of landslides. Travellers are advised to keep emergency contacts handy and follow local administration updates closely.