IMD issues rain, thunderstorm and hail alerts for 12 Indian states and union territories

The India Meteorological Department has issued a short-range weather alert for 12 states and union territories, warning of rain, thunderstorms, lightning, gusty winds and isolated hailstorms over the next few hours on June 22, 2026.

The alert has put residents and local authorities on watch as the weather pattern continues to move across several parts of the country during the early monsoon period. Delhi-NCR, Jammu and Kashmir, Bihar, Rajasthan, Maharashtra, West Bengal and Tamil Nadu were among the areas named in the initial reporting.

What the alert says

Multiple Indian outlets reported that the IMD warning covers rain, thunderstorm activity, lightning, strong winds and hail in the near term. Navbharat Times said the weather activity could build within the next 15 hours, while Economic Times described the warning as an immediate alert for the next few hours.

The reports did not identify all 12 states and union territories in the material available, but they did confirm a broad spread of affected regions across north, east, west and south India.

Why it matters

The warning carries immediate public-safety relevance because thunderstorms and lightning can disrupt travel, commuting and outdoor work. Hail and gusty winds can also damage crops, trees, vehicles and exposed property.

June is the beginning of the southwest monsoon season in India, when weather can shift quickly between heat, thunderstorms and heavy rain. IMD alerts are often used by residents and local officials to prepare for localized flooding, wind damage and transport disruption.

What to watch next

The next update to watch is whether IMD narrows the alert to specific districts or upgrades any warnings. State governments may also issue school, transport or emergency advisories if conditions worsen.

Officials and residents are also watching for reports of heavier rain, stronger winds or isolated hail in the affected areas as the alert remains active.