New Delhi: India Meteorological Department (IMD) has forecast widespread thunderstorms, rainfall, gusty winds and isolated hailstorms across large parts of India on Saturday as multiple weather systems continue to influence atmospheric conditions nationwide.

The weather activity is expected to provide significant relief from the intense summer heat that affected several regions in recent weeks.

According to the IMD, thunderstorms are likely across northwest, central, eastern and peninsular India, while isolated heavy rainfall has been forecast in Gujarat, West Madhya Pradesh, Tamil Nadu, Kerala, Lakshadweep, coastal Andhra Pradesh, Nagaland, Manipur, Mizoram and Tripura.

Multiple weather systems influencing conditions

Meteorologists said the current weather pattern is being driven by a combination of cyclonic circulations and trough systems spread across Pakistan, Assam, the Bay of Bengal and the Arabian Sea.

These systems are helping transport moisture inland and creating favourable conditions for thunderstorms and rain over large parts of the country.

The IMD stated that atmospheric instability combined with moisture incursion is likely to trigger localised severe weather events in several regions.

Strong winds, lightning activity and sudden rain spells are expected in many urban and rural areas during the weekend.

Delhi-NCR likely to witness cooler conditions

Residents of Delhi-NCR and neighbouring parts of northwest India are expected to experience cloudy skies, gusty winds and scattered thunderstorm activity.

Although widespread heavy rainfall is not anticipated over the national capital region, the thunderstorm activity is likely to lower daytime temperatures considerably and improve outdoor conditions.

Weather officials indicated that maximum temperatures across northwest India have already dropped by around 5 to 7 degrees Celsius compared to earlier this week.

Several areas in Rajasthan, Punjab, Haryana, Uttar Pradesh and Madhya Pradesh that recently witnessed heatwave conditions are now expected to experience comparatively cooler weather.

Hailstorms and dust storms likely in some regions

The IMD has also warned of isolated hailstorm activity over parts of Vidarbha on Saturday.

Meanwhile, western Rajasthan may witness dust storms due to strong surface winds and unstable atmospheric conditions.

Authorities advised residents in affected regions to remain cautious as dust storms and hailstorms may temporarily reduce visibility and disrupt road travel.

Experts also warned about the risks associated with lightning strikes and sudden strong winds during thunderstorm activity.

People have been advised to avoid open fields and seek shelter during severe weather conditions.

Monsoon advancing further

The IMD stated that conditions remain favourable for the further advance of the southwest monsoon into additional parts of the Arabian Sea and Bay of Bengal over the coming days.

The continued monsoon progression has raised hopes for early seasonal rainfall across more regions of the country.

Meteorologists said the advancement of monsoon currents is likely to further support rainfall activity over southern, eastern and central India in the coming week.

The arrival of widespread rain is expected to improve moisture levels and provide relief to areas facing prolonged heat and dry weather conditions.

Relief from scorching summer heat

The widespread weather activity forecast for Saturday is expected to bring substantial respite from soaring temperatures experienced across many parts of India during May.

Several cities in northern and central India had recorded temperatures above normal levels over recent days before the current weather systems developed.

The IMD said central India is also expected to witness a gradual decline in temperatures during the next few days due to increased cloud cover and rainfall activity.

Weather experts noted that while the rain may improve conditions in many regions, localised severe weather events could still cause temporary disruptions.

Residents across the country have been advised to stay updated with local weather alerts and take precautions during thunderstorms, lightning and gusty wind activity.