MD Warns of Heavy Rainfall: Four States on High Alert
New Delhi | October 31, 2025 —
The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has sounded a heavy rainfall alert across several eastern and central states as an active low-pressure system intensifies over the Bay of Bengal. States including Bihar, West Bengal, Sikkim, and Madhya Pradesh are bracing for days of intense downpour, lightning and gusty winds.
According to the IMD’s latest bulletin, the weather pattern is being driven by a remnant depression over the east-central Arabian Sea and an associated cyclonic circulation that has strengthened moisture inflow into the eastern belt.
“We are observing conditions similar to a post-monsoon system with high convective activity. Heavy to very heavy rain is likely in isolated pockets of Bihar, north-eastern Madhya Pradesh, and sub-Himalayan West Bengal,” said Dr Mrutyunjay Mohapatra, IMD Director-General.
🌦️ The Weather Forecast in Detail
Bihar: Widespread rainfall is expected, particularly in Patna, Gaya, Bhagalpur and Siwan districts. The IMD warns of potential waterlogging and flash floods in low-lying areas.
West Bengal: North Bengal districts such as Jalpaiguri, Alipurduar and Darjeeling are likely to witness heavy showers accompanied by thunderstorms.
Sikkim: Landslide-prone regions in South and East Sikkim have been put on alert.
Madhya Pradesh: The eastern belt including Satna, Rewa, and Jabalpur could receive moderate to heavy rainfall due to the system’s movement west-northwestward.
A yellow alert has been issued in more than 35 districts across these states. Fishermen have been advised not to venture into the north Bay of Bengal and adjoining coastal waters until November 2.
⚠️ State Governments on Preparedness Mode
Disaster-management authorities in all four states have been directed to stay vigilant. In Bihar, the State Disaster Response Force (SDRF) teams are on standby in flood-prone regions.
The West Bengal government has opened emergency control rooms in Kolkata, while Sikkim’s administration is coordinating with the Army for mountain-rescue operations in case of landslides.
In Bhopal, Madhya Pradesh CM Dr Mohan Yadav held a review meeting and instructed officials to “ensure uninterrupted power, drainage and medical support” in urban centres.
“Our teams are equipped to respond rapidly. We are also monitoring reservoir levels to prevent overflow risks,” said Anurag Shukla, Principal Secretary (Disaster Management).
🛰️ The Science Behind the Weather
Meteorologists explain that this unseasonal wet spell stems from post-monsoon residual moisture and interacting westerly winds. The resulting low-pressure trough behaves similarly to monsoon systems, even though the official monsoon season ended in September.
Climatologist Dr Ruma Sen noted,
“Climate variability is increasing the frequency of such extended rainy spells. Warmer seas are energizing late-season depressions that bring erratic rainfall even in October and November.”
Satellite imagery from INSAT-3D shows dense cloud clusters spanning from the Bay of Bengal to central India, signalling sustained precipitation for at least the next 48–72 hours.
🌊 Impact on Daily Life and Economy
Transport services have already been disrupted in parts of north Bengal and Bihar, with reports of delayed trains and waterlogged highways. The agriculture sector, however, may receive some relief as moisture boosts rabi-crop prospects — especially for wheat and pulses in Madhya Pradesh.
Yet, for flood-sensitive regions like North Bihar and the Teesta basin in Sikkim, the concern remains grave. Hydrologists warn that persistent rainfall could raise river levels beyond the danger mark.
Local businesses in Siliguri and Muzaffarpur reported a dip in footfall as residents stayed indoors. Meanwhile, airlines issued travel advisories for passengers flying to Patna, Kolkata and Bagdogra airports, citing possible delays due to poor visibility.
💬 Voices from the Ground
In Kolkata’s Lake Gardens area, shopkeeper Rupesh Das told INVC News,
“We’ve seen rain for three days straight. Drains are overflowing again — the city feels like monsoon has returned.”
From Patna, student Aditi Singh shared on social media,
“Online classes are a blessing today; water has entered our lane knee-deep!”
📸 Image Alt Texts for SEO
“IMD satellite map showing heavy rainfall forecast for East and Central India 2025”
“Residents wade through waterlogged streets in Patna during IMD rain alert”
“Thunderstorms over Kolkata skyline amid October weather warning 2025”
“Disaster-response team in Sikkim prepares for landslide risk during heavy rains”
🌍 IMD’s Advisory and Outlook
The IMD urges citizens to stay indoors during thunderstorms, avoid open fields, and keep emergency kits ready.
Looking ahead, the department predicts that rain intensity will gradually reduce from November 3, followed by a sharp drop in temperatures across northern plains — marking the onset of early winter.
🧩 Final Word
While the rains bring much-needed relief to farmers and reservoirs, they also highlight India’s growing vulnerability to climate volatility. The message from experts is clear — preparedness must now extend beyond traditional monsoon months.
“Rain is a blessing only when we’re ready to receive it,” remarked weather analyst Rajdeep Banerjee.
“October 2025 is a reminder that nature’s calendar no longer follows ours.”
