Understanding the IMD Yellow Alert and What It Means for You

When the Indian Meteorological Department (IMD) issues a yellow alert, it’s a heads‑up that rain, thunderstorms or strong winds are likely to affect your area. It’s not a full‑blown emergency, but ignoring it can leave you caught off‑guard during a sudden downpour or a short‑lived storm.

Why the Yellow Alert Happens

The IMD watches satellite data, radar loops and ground stations to spot weather patterns that could turn messy. A yellow alert pops up when the models show a moderate risk of rain, gusty breezes (usually 40‑60 km/h), or isolated thunderstorms. It’s the department’s way of saying, “Hey, keep an eye on the sky and be ready for a splash.”

Recent Cases You Might Remember

In the past week, Delhi saw a yellow alert after the Yamuna river crept just above the 207‑meter mark. Light rain eased the heat, but the river’s level warned locals to avoid low‑lying streets. A similar alert hit Kolkata during the KKR vs RCB IPL clash; the stadium staff had to cover the pitch and keep the game moving despite gusty winds.

These examples show that a yellow alert can touch everything from daily commutes to big events. Even airports feel the impact – IGI saw several flight diversions when a yellow alert turned into heavier showers, causing delays across the board.

So, what should you do when the alert hits?

Check local forecasts. A quick glance at the IMD website or a trusted weather app will tell you the expected intensity and timing.
Plan your travel. If you’re heading out, carry an umbrella, wear water‑proof shoes and allow extra time for traffic snarls.
Secure outdoor items. Loose furniture, garden tools and construction materials can become hazards in sudden gusts.
Stay informed about river levels. In places like Delhi, the Yamuna’s rise can affect low‑lying areas and even public services.
Follow local advisories. Municipalities may issue road closures or parking bans during an alert.

For businesses, a yellow alert is a cue to check backup power, protect equipment and inform employees about flexible work options. For students, it means a possible delay in school buses or a shift to online classes if the rain gets heavy.

How to Use the Alert to Your Advantage

Think of the yellow alert as your weather “early warning system.” It gives you a chance to:

Reschedule outdoor activities like weddings, picnics or construction work.
Take advantage of cooler temperatures for a quick jog or a walk, especially if the heatwave is easing.
Watch for short‑term drops in air quality – rain often clears dust and pollutants, making the air feel fresher.

Remember, the alert isn’t a panic button. It’s a signal to stay a step ahead.

Finally, keep an eye on the next level of warning. If the IMD upgrades to an orange or red alert, the situation is getting serious and you’ll need to take stronger precautions – like staying indoors, avoiding travel and following official evacuation instructions.

Stay tuned, stay prepared, and let the IMD yellow alert work for you instead of against you.

Delhi rains: IMD issues fresh Yellow Alert as three weather systems fuel two more days of downpours

4.09.2025 By: Aarav Bhatnagar

IMD has issued a fresh yellow alert for Delhi as heavy showers linger for two more days, driven by three weather factors. The Yamuna is above the evacuation mark for a second day, traffic is choked in key stretches, and flights are delayed at IGI Airport. Temperatures have dipped below normal, and air quality remains satisfactory. NCR cities are on orange alert with warnings of waterlogging.