The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued an orange alert for the Nashik district as rainfall intensity continues to rise ahead of the monsoon. Heavy rain and gale-force winds are forecast, and citizens have been urged to remain vigilant. Data from the past five days shows the district has recorded an average of 21.8 mm of rainfall per day, and similar conditions are expected over the next five days.
Rainfall over the last five days has been as follows: on May 7, 15 mm fell with light showers and cloudy skies in the afternoon; May 8 saw 22 mm and moderate evening rain; May 9 brought 29 mm and heavy afternoon downpours leading to waterlogging; May 10 delivered 18 mm accompanied by thunderstorms and late-night showers; and May 11 recorded 25 mm with intermittent rain from morning to evening. These unseasonal rains have strained urban drainage systems, causing waterlogging in Panchavati, Ramghat and along Gangapur Road, though they have provided some relief to farmers.
Looking ahead, the IMD predicts heavy rain of 30–40 mm with gusty winds of 30–40 km/h on May 13 (maximum 31 °C, minimum 23 °C), moderate rain of 15–25 mm and cloudy weather on May 14 (maximum 32 °C, minimum 23 °C), light rain of 10–15 mm on May 15 (maximum 32 °C, minimum 23 °C), light to moderate rain of 12–20 mm with possible gusty winds on May 16 (maximum 31 °C, minimum 23 °C), and light rain of 5–10 mm with partly cloudy skies on May 17 (maximum 32 °C, minimum 23 °C). The department has warned of intensifying afternoon and evening showers, advising residents to exercise caution when venturing outdoors.
Local reaction has been mixed. “Rain is good for agriculture, but waterlogged roads are making movement difficult,” said Smita Patil of Panchavati. Trader Rahul Deshmukh on Gangapur Road noted, “We welcome the forecasts but urge the administration to upgrade drainage systems.” In response, the Nashik Municipal Corporation and district authorities have mobilised emergency relief teams and water-pumping equipment to tackle potential flooding.
The IMD has further advised residents to follow official directives, remain in safe locations during heavy rain and winds, and maintain an emergency kit containing torches, batteries, first-aid supplies and drinking water. Citizens are urged to keep their domestic drains clear to prevent water accumulation and to avoid unnecessary travel through waterlogged areas or under trees during storms. Farmers have been specifically cautioned to protect their crops from field waterlogging.
With the district on high alert, authorities appeal for public cooperation to ensure safety and resilience as the monsoon advances.
IMD’s weather forecast for the next five days
- May 13, 2025: Heavy rain (30-40 mm), gusty winds (30-40 km/h) in the afternoon. Temperature: Max 31°C, Min 23°C.
- May 14, 2025: Moderate rain (15-25 mm), cloudy weather. Temperature: Max 32°C, Min 23°C.
- May 15, 2025: Light rain (10-15 mm), occasional showers. Temperature: Max 32°C, Min 23°C.
- May 16, 2025: Light to moderate rain (12-20 mm), possibility of gusty winds. Temperature: Max 31°C, Min 23°C.
- May 17, 2025: Light rain (5-10 mm), partly cloudy weather. Temperature: Max 32°C, Min 23°C.
Dos and don’ts
What is to be done:
- Be alert: Follow the IMD instructions and the orders of the local administration.
- Stay in a safe place: Stay indoors or in a safe place during rain and gusty winds.
- Keep an emergency kit ready: Keep torches, batteries, first aid supplies and water bottles nearby.
- Check the drainage system: Keep the drains in the house and surroundings clean, so that water does not accumulate.
- Farmers should be careful: Protect crops by keeping in mind the possibility of water accumulation in the fields.
What to avoid:
- Avoid travelling through water: Do not travel if there is water accumulation on the roads.
- Do not stop under trees: There is a risk of trees falling due to windstorms.
- Be careful with electrical appliances: Stay away from electrical wires and wet appliances during the monsoon.
- Avoid unnecessary travel: Do not go out in the afternoon and evening unless it is essential.
