Spain begins process to replace ambassador to India over alleged financial favours: Report

The IMD has forecast heavy to very heavy rain across the Northeast and Himalayan foothills over the next five days, while warning of flash floods in parts of the northern hills and southern India.IMD warns of flash flood risk in Himachal, J&K, Ladakh, Uttarakhand.(HT)Rainfall activity is set to intensify over northeast India and the foothills of the central and eastern Himalayas over the next four to five days, while easing across south peninsular India, the India Meteorological Department (IMD) said on Sunday.The weather office has forecast isolated heavy to very heavy rainfall across the Northeast over the next five days and along the Himalayan foothills over the next four to five days. In the south, rainfall activity is expected to weaken, although coastal and south interior Karnataka may continue to receive isolated heavy to very heavy showers over the next two days.Regional outlookIn the Northeast, fairly widespread to widespread rainfall is likely over Arunachal Pradesh on 5 August, while Assam and Meghalaya are expected to receive widespread rain between 3 and 5 August. Nagaland, Manipur, Mizoram and Tripura are likely to witness widespread rainfall from 3 to 8 August.Rainfall activity over Arunachal Pradesh and Assam-Meghalaya is expected to ease to isolated to scattered showers during 3-4 August and 6-8 August.In northwest India, Jammu & Kashmir, Ladakh, Gilgit-Baltistan and Muzaffarabad are likely to receive widespread rainfall between 3 and 6 August and again on 8 August. Himachal Pradesh and Uttarakhand are expected to witness widespread rain throughout 3-8 August.The IMD has also forecast widespread rainfall over Haryana, Chandigarh, Delhi and Punjab during 3-6 August, east Uttar Pradesh during 3-7 August, and west Uttar Pradesh during 4-7 August, signalling active monsoon conditions across northern India.Flood alertAmid the widespread rainfall, the IMD has issued a low to moderate flash flood risk warning for parts of Himachal Pradesh, Jammu & Kashmir, Ladakh and Uttarakhand over the next 24 hours. It cautioned that surface runoff and inundation could occur in low-lying areas due to saturated soil conditions.A similar flash flood risk has been flagged for districts in Kerala and coastal and south interior Karnataka, where continued heavy rainfall may trigger localised flooding and waterlogging. Residents in vulnerable areas have been advised to remain alert and follow local administration advisories.Meanwhile, during the past 24 hours, extremely heavy rainfall of 21 cm or more was recorded over east Uttar Pradesh, Kerala, Tamil Nadu, and coastal and south interior Karnataka.Very heavy rainfall (12-20 cm) was reported in Saurashtra and Madhya Maharashtra, while heavy rainfall (7-11 cm) occurred across parts of Rajasthan, Arunachal Pradesh, Meghalaya, Sikkim, Odisha, Bihar, Himachal Pradesh, Uttarakhand, Gujarat, Konkan and north interior Karnataka.About the AuthorVijay C RoyVijay C. Roy is a journalist with over 21 years of experience covering various news beats across different organisations such as Business Standard and The Tribune. In the past, he has covered beats such as finance, auto, MSME, commodities, FMCG, pharmaceutical, agriculture, IT/ITES, infrastructure and start-ups. He joined Mint in February 2025, and covers agriculture, food processing, fertilizers, environment and climate change, bringing over two decades of experience reporting on farm policy, food inflation, crop trade, and rural livelihoods. Vijay’s areas of reporting include food security and climate change policies, focusing on their impact on different stakeholders and their implications. His expertise lies in simplifying complex agri-economic issues such as edible oil import dependence, cotton and wheat trends, fertiliser subsidies, and climate-related risks. He has covered key developments including global supply disruptions and evolving trade policies, offering both macroeconomic perspective and field-level context. Known for his

Petrol in Delhi would have cost around ₹125 per litre when global crude prices hit $135 a barrel, had ethanol not been blended into fuel, the Centre said. Defending the E20 programme, it said consumers instead paid ₹94.77 per litre, calling ethanol India's energy insurance against oil shocks.More than a year after India completed the nationwide adoption of E20 petrol, meeting its target of 20 per cent ethanol blending well before the 2030 deadlinePetrol in Delhi would have cost around ₹125 per litre when global crude oil prices surged to nearly $135 a barrel, had oil marketing companies not blended ethanol with petrol, the Centre said on Friday, TOI reported.In a statement, the Ministry of Petroleum and Natural Gas (MoPNG) said consumers instead paid ₹94.77 per litre because 20% of every litre of petrol comprised domestically produced ethanol, procured at stable, pre-agreed prices that were insulated from fluctuations in global crude oil prices."When the Indian crude basket surged to around $135 per barrel, petrol without ethanol blending was projected to cost around ₹125 per litre in Delhi. Instead, consumers paid ₹94.77 per litre because 20 per cent of every litre was domestically produced ethanol," the ministry said.The clarification comes amid criticism over the rollout of E20 petrol -- a blend containing 20% ethanol and 80% petrol -- with concerns ranging from reduced fuel efficiency to alleged diversion of foodgrains and taxpayer subsidies.Ethanol is 'energy insurance', not a subsidyThe ministry rejected claims that ethanol blending survives on taxpayer support, describing the programme as an "energy insurance policy" that protects consumers from volatility in international oil markets."It is not about being the cheapest fuel every day. It is about protecting Indian consumers from extreme volatility in global oil markets, strengthening India's energy security, and keeping more of the country's fuel bill within the Indian economy rather than sending it overseas," it said.The ministry also denied allegations that subsidised Food Corporation of India (FCI) rice meant for welfare schemes was being diverted for ethanol production.According to the government, only surplus grain certified after meeting all food security obligations is approved for ethanol production. It said the programme largely uses damaged grain, broken rice and other stocks unfit for human consumption, while also expanding second-generation ethanol production from agricultural residue under the Pradhan Mantri JI-VAN Yojana.What about mileage?The government's clarification came a day after Road Transport and Highways Minister Nitin Gadkari informed Parliament that E20 petrol could reduce fuel efficiency by 2% to 6%, depending on a vehicle's age and category.Citing a joint study by the Automotive Research Association of India (ARAI), the Society of Indian Automobile Manufacturers (SIAM) and Indian Oil Corporation (IOC), Gadkari said some rubber components and gaskets in older BS-III vehicles manufactured before 2016 may require replacement when using E20 fuel.However, he maintained that ethanol-blended petrol does not damage engines and has been introduced through a phased, scientifically validated process. The government also said over 20 crore two-wheelers and more than 3 crore petrol cars have operated on ethanol-blended fuel without verified evidence of engine failures linked to ethanol blending.Stay updated with the latest Trending, India, World and US news. Follow CJP Protest LIVE updates as Sonam Wangchuk ends his 26-day hunger strike following government assurances, while the Jantar Mantar protest continues. Get the latest updates on talks between the CJP delegation and the Centre, the demand for Dharmendra Pradhan’s resignation, possible arrests, Delhi security measures and developments in Parliament.HomeNewsIndiaPetrol in Delhi would have cost around ₹125/litre without ethanol blending during crude spike, says CentreMore

the India Meteorological Department predicting “below-normal rainfall” during the second half of the Southwest Monsoon season (August–September) 2026.Noida, India-May 28, 2026:To protect themselves from the scorching heat, commuters wrap themselves in cloth, in Noida, India, on Thursday, May 28, 2026. (Photo by Sunil Ghosh / Hindustan Times)The monsoon in India appears at risk, with the India Meteorological Department predicting "below-normal rainfall" during the second half of the Southwest Monsoon season (August–September) 2026."During this period, below-normal rainfall is very likely over many parts of the country except some parts of the Peninsular India, Central India, northern parts of northwest India and East and Northeast India where normal to above-normal rainfall is likely," the weather department said in its latest forecast.Is this the impact of El Niño?The IMD mentioned in its August forecast that moderate El Niño conditions currently prevail over the "equatorial Pacific Ocean, with sea surface temperature (SST) anomalies remaining above normal across the central and eastern equatorial Pacific. "The weather department said El Niño conditions are expected to strengthen further during the Southwest Monsoon season."Forecasts from the Monsoon Mission Coupled Forecast System (MMCFS) also indicate a continued strengthening of El Niño conditions throughout the remaining period of Southwest Monsoon season," the IMD added.The World Meteorological Organization (WMO) has repeatedly warned that El Niño conditions are set to influence global temperature and rainfall patterns, increasing the risk of extreme weather over the coming months.El Niño conditions refer to unusually warm ocean surface temperatures in the central and eastern Pacific. In contrast, cooler-than-normal temperatures usually mean La Niña conditions, when easterly winds become stronger, the WMO explains. These phenomena impact monsoons and drought conditions globally.Impact on IndiaIn India, El Niño is likely to bring below-normal rainfall (less than 94% of the Long Period Average (LPA)) in August 2026.The IMD has predicted the development of El Nino conditions during the 2026 southwest monsoon season. El Nino conditions were weak during June 2026 and intensified to moderate levels in July 2026. It's expected to further intensify “starting next month” and shape weather patterns across many parts of the world, the WMO said.The Ministry of Earth Sciences told Parliament on July 30 that El Nino is likely to strengthen further during the October–December 2026 season and may reach a very strong category."However, its exact intensity and impacts over the Indian region depend on the evolution of coupled ocean–atmosphere conditions, of which El Nino is one factor. IMD continuously monitors the evolution of oceanic and atmospheric conditions and issues regular seasonal and monthly forecasts and advisories," the ministry said.Meanwhile, the WMO said that as the August–October 2026 rainfall outlook exhibits patterns of a classic strong El Niño event, "drier-than-normal" conditions are more likely over the Indian subcontinent.UN: 'Planet already on fire'“El Niño is strengthening, adding fuel to a planet already on fire with scorching heat domes, apocalyptic wildfires and record hot seas,” UN Secretary-General António Guterres said on Friday, July 31.His statement came as the UN Meteorological Organization (WMO) warned on Friday that El Niño, a powerful climate pattern shaping global weather, will intensify starting next month.“El Niño is not just on our doorstep; it is inside the house and turning up the heat, and this is only a warm-up act,” Guterres said.Key TakeawaysIMD predicts 'below-normal rainfall' for India during the second half of the Southwest Monsoon 2026.El Niño conditions are expected to strengthen, influencing global temperature and rainfall patterns.UN warns El Niño is exacerbating extreme weather events, with severe impacts likely on the Indian subcontinen

India is heading into the most critical phase of the monsoon with the weather office forecasting below-normal rainfall through August and September, raising fresh risks for kharif crops, food inflation and rural demand.The India Meteorological Department (IMD) on Friday said India is likely to receive less than 94% of the Long Period Average (LPA) rainfall during the second half of the June-September monsoon season. The August-September LPA, based on the 1971-2020 climatological record, is 422.8 mm.The forecast follows a volatile start to the southwest monsoon. June rainfall was 35.4% below the LPA before rebounding to 1% above normal in July, when the country received 283.3 mm against the normal 280.5 mm, despite the IMD forecasting below-normal rainfall for the month.Below-normal rainfall is very likely across much of the country during August-September, except parts of peninsular, central and northwest India, and east and northeast India, where rainfall is expected to be normal to above normal, the IMD said.“July witnessed a substantial improvement in monsoon performance compared to June. The share of districts with normal or better rainfall increased from 30% (224 districts) in June to 53% (388 districts) in July, while deficient and large deficient districts declined from 69% (508 districts) to 46% (344 districts),” said Mrutyunjay Mohapatra, director general of meteorology, IMD.The IMD had cut its June-September monsoon forecast to 90% of the LPA from 92% on 29 May, citing El Niño conditions. India last recorded a below-normal monsoon in 2023, when rainfall was 95% of the LPA. The department also expects August rainfall alone to remain below normal at less than 94% of the LPA.Inflation risksEconomists said another spell of weak rainfall could hit kharif crops and perishable vegetables, hurting farm incomes, rural demand and food prices."It depends on where the rain deficit regions are, if they are in predominantly agricultural zones then we will certainly see an inflation in food prices. The kharif crops will be the most affected, and leafy vegetables. This has a direct impact on farmer life and agriculture supply chains. There could be pressure on the government to compensate for this loss,” said Gurudas Nulkar, director, Centre for Sustainable Development, Gokhale Institute of Politics and Economics (GIPE), Pune.He added that if rainfall remains around 94% of the LPA and deficits are concentrated outside major food-producing states, the economic impact is likely to be manageable.The IMD also projected normal to above-normal minimum temperatures across most of the country during August, a combination that experts said could increase heat stress and reduce soil moisture in rain-fed regions."A below-normal August monsoon is unlikely to derail India’s overall growth story, but it does raise risks for agriculture, rural demand and food inflation. The economy is more resilient than in the past, yet any persistent rainfall shortfall during the sowing season can push up prices for pulses and oilseeds and add to inflationary pressures," said Anjal Prakash, professor of public policy at FLAME University, Pune."The immediate concern is not a collapse in growth, but a hit to farm incomes and food prices. If the rainfall deficit persists, inflation could stay elevated even if the wider economy remains broadly stable,” he added.The southwest monsoon accounts for more than 70% of India's annual rainfall, while about 45% of the country's net sown area remains rain-fed. A good monsoon supports rural demand, while weak rainfall weighs on consumption.S&P Global Ratings warned on 6 July that a weak monsoon could push India's inflation to 5.1% in FY27, hurt rural demand and pressure sectors from agriculture and microfinance to tractors and two-wheelers. It also cautioned that higher agricultural input costs due to geopolitical tensions could further squeeze farm incomes and lift food prices.The risks come as inflation has already begun to

Prime Minister Narendra Modi will hold Annual Summit-level talks with his Japanese counterpart Sanae Takaichi in New Delhi today, 2 July.The India-Japan Summit will provide an opportunity for both sides to review strengthen bilateral cooperation across trade, investment, defence and other key sectors.The two leaders are also expected to exchange views on regional and global issues of mutual interest during the summit to be held at Hyderabad House. Several MoUs are expected to be exchanged following the talks between Prime Minister Modi and Prime Minister Takaichi.Quick answers to key questions•5 QUESTIONSThe main topics of discussion include trade, investment, defense, cooperation in AI and semiconductors, and energy resilience.The summit is significant as it aims to strengthen the Special Strategic and Global Partnership between India and Japan amid rising global uncertainties.The proposed framework will allow direct transactions in rupee and yen, reducing reliance on the US dollar and facilitating easier cross-border payments.Agreements expected to be signed include those on energy resilience, AI, critical minerals, and cooperation in various technological sectors.Yes, businesses should be interested as the summit will likely pave the way for increased Japanese investment in India and potential new business opportunities.Takaichi arrived in New Delhi on Wednesday on a three-day visit to India. This is Takaichi's first official visit to India. She is visiting at PM Modi's invitation from July 1 to 3 for the 16th India-Japan annual summit, the MEA earlier said.Takaichi was earlier scheduled to visit Guwahati where the summit meeting with Prime Minister Narendra Modi was being planned. The plans were cancelled just days before the commencement of the visit.Takaichi's engagement todayIn a special gesture for a Head of Government, not state, Prime Minister Takaichi will be welcomed at the Forecourt of the Rashtrapati Bhavan today, according to a report in The Hindu. The two sides are likly to sign at least ten memoranda of understanding (MoUs) to be announced after talks between the two leaders at at Hyderabad House.Apart from the MoU on energy resilience, agreements on biogas, upstream development of oil and gas, exploration of critical minerals, batteries, artificial intelligence, and pharmaceuticals are also on the table.Takaichi will also address a business meeting where more than 100 Japanese businesspersons are expected, and several MoUs will be signed. Discussions on the Green Ammonia Project in Odisha that has come up with Japanese assistance, are also expected, according to The Hindu report. The Japanese PM will also take part in discussion on that is part of India’s mobility-centric outreach with key economic partners.What did the MEA say?The MEA said earlier that the visit is aimed at strengthening relations with India, which is "of utmost importance for the realisation of a 'Free and Open Indo-Pacific'."It said the two leaders will discuss "the further strengthening of mutually complementary cooperation" under the "Japan-India Joint Vision for the Next Decade" announced during Modi's visit to Japan in August last year.The discussions today will cover “the areas of economic security, including energy, as well as economic growth through investment and innovation”, the Ministry said.Takaichi's visit follows Modi's trip to Tokyo in August 2025, during which the two countries unveiled the Japan-India Joint Vision for the Next Decade and Japan announced a target of investing 10 trillion yen in India over the coming decade.“We are delighted to host you on your first visit to India and I look forward to our wide-ranging discussions tomorrow that will further deepen the India-Japan Special Strategic and Global Partnership. Through our joint efforts, we will continue to advance peace, stability and prosperity in the Indo-Pacific and beyond,” PM Modi said welcoming the Japanese leader on X on Wednesday.India and Japan share a Sp

Kashmir Valley schools will close for summer vacation for two weeks due to heatwave conditions. The state Education Minister Sakina Itoo advised students to take necessary precautions against the heat.Kashmiris cool off at a stream on a hot summer day on the outskirts of Srinagar on Tuesday, June 30.(AP Photo/Dar Yasin)Heatwave conditions in Kashmir prompted the Directorate of School Education Kashmir (DSEK) to announce summer vacation for all government and recognised private schools. Schools across the Kashmir Valley will remain closed from 6 July to 19 July, as it witnessed one of the hottest months in over two decades. The region braces for spike in mercury and another heatwave after few days of downpour.Schools up to the higher secondary level will remain closed during the notified period, according to an official order. Classes will resume from 20 July after the vacation in the wake of rise in temperatures across Kashmir over the past several days. This early summer break comes after most arid June since 2014. India received nearly 40% less rainfall than normal last month, recording driest June in 12 years. With 40% less rainfall than normal, it was the fifth-driest month since 1901."Consequent upon the approval conveyed by the competent authority, it is hereby ordered that all the government and recognised private schools up to higher secondary level functioning in the Kashmir division shall observe summer vacation w.e.f 06.07.2026 to 19.07.2026," DSEK's notification said.IMD director general Mrutyunjay Mohapatra on Tuesday said precipitation this month is expected to be less than 94% of the long-term average of about 28 centimeters, attributing it to the emergence of an El Niño weather pattern in the Pacific Ocean.Jammu and Kashmir Education Minister Sakina Itoo took to social media platform X to advise students to take necessary precautions against the heat and stay safe during the vacation by remaining hydrated.The post stated, "In view of the prevailing weather conditions across the Kashmir Valley, all Government and recognised private schools shall observe Summer Vacation from 6th July to 19th July 2026. Schools will reopen on 20th July 2026."Extending wishes ahead of summer vacation, she added, “The well-being and safety of our students remain our highest priority. I wish all our students, teachers, and school staff a safe, healthy, and refreshing break. I also urge everyone to stay hydrated, take necessary precautions during the heat, and utilise this time for rest, reading, and meaningful family engagement.”As per the India Meteorological Department (IMD), the maximum and minimum daytime temperatures remained 5–6°C and 4-6℃ above normal across most parts of Kashmir, indicating persistent heatwave-like conditions. In the Jammu division, maximum and minimum temperatures were 0–2°C and 1-4℃ above normal at many places. Srinagar recorded one of the highest maximum temperature in the Kashmir division at 35.2°C, while Jammu city was the hottest in the Jammu division with a maximum temperature of 36.3°C. In Kashmir's Konibal, the maximum temperature spiked as high as 35.5°C and in Kupwara it hovered touched 35.4°C.5-day weather forecast for Jammu and KashmirPredicting possibility of heavy rains, flash floods, thunderstorm, lightening and gusty winds till 5 July, the IMD issued yellow alert for Kashmir and orange for Jammu division.Monsoon set to cover most of Northwest IndiaAccording to the India Meteorological Department (IMD), prevailing atmospheric conditions indicate that the Southwest Monsoon has further advanced into Gujarat, Madhya Pradesh, Uttar Pradesh, Uttarakhand, Himachal Pradesh, Ladakh, Jammu and Kashmir, Haryana and Punjab today.About the AuthorFareha NaazFareha Naaz is a Delhi-based journalist and Content Producer at LiveMint, where she has built nearly three years of experience in digital journalism. She covers a diverse range of topics, including national news, education, entertainment, lifestyle tren

The prime minister also highlighted local efforts to clean polluted rivers, the growing interest in astronomy clubs, the rescue of a Gangetic dolphin using a special ambulance, and the progress made by Indian athletes in track and field. India exported nearly 29,938.40 tonnes of mangoes worth $56.50 million in FY25 to destinations such as the UAE, the US, Kuwait, and Qatar.(Pexels)New Delhi - Mango cultivation and the farmers involved in it are “very special for the agricultural economy of the country”, Prime Minister Narendra Modi said in his monthly radio address ‘Mann Ki Baat’ on Sunday.Highlighting the diversity of India's mangoes, Modi said the popular summer season fruit is making its way from the country's villages to the global markets.“Every region… its own mango, its own flavour, its own aroma,” he said, listing varieties such as Alphonso (Hapus) of Maharashtra, Gujarat's Kesar, Uttar Pradesh's Dussehri, and his own constituency Varanasi's Langra.While India is the world’s largest mango producer, most of its yield is consumed domestically, with about 1% exported. India exported nearly 29,938.40 tonnes of mangoes worth $56.50 million in FY25 to destinations such as the UAE, the US, Kuwait, and Qatar, according to data cited by the Agricultural and Processed Food Product Export Development Authority (Apeda).The prime minister also spok on the intense summer conditions being experienced across several parts of the country. He highlighted traditional foods and drinks that can help people cope with the heat, including sattu sherbet, kokam sherbet and sol kadhi.His remarks come amid an ongoing heatwave in several parts of northern India, where daytime temperatures have been touching 45 degrees Celsius. Modi urged citizens to stay hydrated and exercise caution while stepping out in the sun. “Don't forget the guidelines issued by various government departments in this regard,” he added.Heatwave conditions have pushed up power demand in the world’s most populous country. Mint reported on 29 May that several parts of India are facing power outages during the evening and night hours, as the power grid struggles to meet demand once solar supply fades.The prime minister also highlighted local efforts to clean polluted rivers, the growing interest in astronomy clubs, the rescue of a Gangetic dolphin using a special ambulance, and the progress made by Indian athletes in track and field.Modi also spoke about the recent return of ancient copper plates from the Chola period from the Netherlands to India.“These include 21 large and 3 small copper plates. They primarily relate to King Rajendra Chola the first, fulfilling a vow made by his father, King Rajaraja Chola. They mention the donation of the village of Anaimangalam to a Buddhist monastery. These copper plates also describe the achievements of the Chola dynasty," said Modi. "They reveal how formidable the Chola Empire’s maritime power was. They also provide information about their relations with Southeast Asian countries.”The Chola dynasty, which ruled large parts of southern India between the 9th and 13th centuries, was known for its maritime power and influence across Southeast Asia.About the AuthorManas PimpalkhareManas is a New Delhi-based journalist with Mint, where he covers the intersection of economic policy, industry, and emerging sectors shaping India’s growth. He writes on government regulation, manufacturing, and the clean energy transition, with particular depth in areas such as electric mobility, battery ecosystems, and rare-earth supply chains. He has written on India’s efforts to build domestic capacity in electric vehicles and energy storage, as well as the broader push to reduce import dependence and strengthen supply chain resilience. His reports are not limited to capturing the headline; they also aim to explain complex policy simply. Manas has studied law in Pune, the city where he grew up, followed by a business journalism diploma from the Asian Colle

Extremely Severe Alert on phones? Loud alarm warns of bad weather in Delhi NCR — ‘such alert for basic thunderstorm’Mint ImageAt exactly 5:18 pm, a loud emergency alert tone suddenly sounded on my phone. The message on the screen carried a stark warning: "Extremely Severe Alert."The text below read: "Severe Thunderstorm (wind speed 60-80 KMph, Gusting to 90 Kmph) with Lightning and Moderate to Intense Spell of Rain and Hail is very likely to occur at a few places over Aligarh, Baghpat, Bulandshahr, Gautambuddha Nagar, Ghaziabad, Hapur, Mathura, Meerut in next 3 hours."Not just me, but millions of residents across Delhi-NCR reportedly received an emergency alert on their mobile phones warning of severe thunderstorm and rainfall on Saturday evening.An "Extremely Severe Alert" is a government-initiated notification designed to warn citizens of imminent, life-threatening disasters such as cyclones and heavy rainfall.https://x.com/DelhiPolice/status/2050469684290723851Saturday likely marked one of the first times the alert system was deployed. While many netizens praised it as a "commendable" initiative, several questioned the decision to issue an "Extremely Severe Alert" for what they considered relatively moderate weather conditions.A social media user posted on X, saying, "It is a commendable step that the Meteorological Department is continuously sending Broadcast-based “Extremely Severe Alert” on mobiles. This technology instantly delivers warnings to villages, fields, and those working in the open without internet.""However, labeling even a regular storm of 60-80 km/h as “extremely severe” every time could create a . Repeated siren sounds may lead people to take real disaster alerts lightly," the post added.https://x.com/search?q=Extremely%20Severe%20Alert&src=typed_queryAnother user complained, "...might not die due to storm or lightning but can definitely die due to this stupid alert…🚨My phone was so close to my ear and heart when this rang😭😭 What’s the need of such alert for just basic thunderstorm.. Govt of India???? 💀💁🏻"About the AuthorAkriti AnandAkriti Anand is a Deputy Chief Content Producer at LiveMint. She is a digital journalist with more than six years in the news industry. In her current role, she covers both national and international politics, and also keeps a close watch on the latest trends in science and space exploration. Akriti joined the LiveMint team in October 2023. Before this, she built a strong career at other major media houses. She worked as a senior sub-editor at India Today. Later, she moved to CNBCTV-18. There, she covered high-pressure topics like breaking news and major elections. She spent much of her time analysing Parliament bills and complex political debates. She is also a skilled editor who knows how to polish a story for a digital audience. One of her career highlights happened at CNBCTV-18. She made her first television debut during the Chandrayaan-3 mission. She also provided special on-air coverage for the Karnataka Elections. When she is not busy with breaking news, Akriti loves to write explainers and interview experts on a wide range of issues. She also enjoys making complex space missions easy for everyone to understand. Her education helps her tackle these diverse subjects. She holds a BA in English Literature, a Postgraduate Diploma in Mass Communication, and a Master’s degree in Development Studies. She is currently expanding her knowledge in climate journalism. Connect with Akriti here LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/akriti-anand-868285199 Twitter/X: https://x.com/AkritiAnand7 Email: akriti.anand@htdigital.in Stay updated with the latest Trending, India , World and US news. HomeNewsIndiaExtremely Severe Alert on phones? Loud alarm warns of bad weather in Delhi NCR — ‘such alert for basic th

The India Meteorological Department has revised its monsoon forecast, saying the country is likely to receive 90% of the long-period average rainfall this season. While Northeast India is expected to witness normal rainfall, most other regions may experience below-normal precipitation.IMD has forecast below normal monsoon rains for 2026 amid emerging El Nino conditions. (Pexels Photo)India is likely to receive 90% of its long-period average (LPA) rainfall during the Southwest monsoon season this year, according to the India Meteorological Department (IMD), which released its second monsoon forecast on Friday.The revised estimate marks a slight downgrade from the weather department's first forecast issued on 13 April, when it had projected monsoon rainfall at 92% of the long-period average.The latest outlook indicates that while Northeast India is expected to receive normal rainfall during the season, several other regions of the country may experience below-normal precipitation.Below-Normal Rainfall Expected Across Most RegionsSharing details of the forecast, IMD Director General Dr Mrutyunjay Mohapatra outlined the expected rainfall pattern across different parts of the country."Quantitatively, the Southwest monsoon season rainfall over the country is likely to be 90% of the long period average... Below normal rainfall is most likely over the country... Southwest monsoon, seasonal rainfall is most likely to be normal over Northeast India - roughly about 94 to 106% of the long-period average, and below normal over Central and South peninsula India, that is about less than 94% of the long-period average. And Northwest India, it is roughly about less than 92% of long-period average. The monsoon core zone, consisting mostly of rainfed agricultural areas in the country, is likely to be below normal - less than 94% of the long-period average..." he said.According to the IMD, Central India and the southern peninsular region are expected to record rainfall below 94% of the long-period average, while Northwest India may receive less than 92% of average seasonal rainfall.Particularly significant is the forecast for the country's monsoon core zone, which comprises largely rain-fed agricultural regions. The weather office has indicated that rainfall in these areas is also likely to remain below normal.Northeast India May Be An ExceptionWhile much of the country could witness lower-than-average rainfall, the IMD expects Northeast India to fare better during the monsoon season.The weather department said seasonal rainfall over the region is most likely to remain within the normal range, estimated at roughly 94% to 106% of the long-period average.The Southwest monsoon is crucial for India's agriculture sector, water reservoirs and overall economy, with millions dependent on seasonal rainfall for farming activities.Rain Brings Relief Across Delhi-NCRMeanwhile, parts of Delhi-NCR witnessed a welcome change in weather after rain and thunderstorms swept across the region on Thursday evening, bringing relief from intense heat.Following the showers, the IMD has forecast continued wet and windy conditions across Delhi, Noida, Ghaziabad, Gurugram and Faridabad as pre-monsoon activity remains active over northern India.Several areas of the national capital received heavy rainfall on Thursday, while neighbouring NCR cities experienced dust storms and strong winds. The weather conditions reduced visibility in some areas and affected traffic movement.What Is Delhi's Weather Forecast?According to the IMD, the current spell of rain and thunderstorm activity is expected to continue across Delhi-NCR until 31 May.For Friday, the weather department has forecast:Cloudy skies through the dayIntermittent rainfall in several parts of Delhi-NCRThunderstorm activity during daytime and evening hoursStrong gusty winds in isolated locationsCooler temperatures compared to the conditions witnessed earlier this weekThe weather system is expected to keep temperatures low