Each year, India faces a variety of extreme weather events, including heat waves, thunderstorms, heavy rains, cold waves, and storms. To keep the public informed and safe, the India Meteorological Department (IMD) employs a colour-coded alert system. This system consists of four colours—green, yellow, orange, and red—each with a specific meaning.
If you are making travel arrangements, entering into a school program, or working day to day, etc., it will assist you in determining the best course of action. It is important to be aware of all of these alerts. Let’s explore what each of the colours means and how you should prepare for them.
WHY ARE THESE CODES USED?
The IMD’s colour-code weather alert system serves the primary purpose of putting weather information into a simple, easy-to-understand category system. In this way, when these alerts are issued, people get the opportunity to assess how potentially hazardous the weather that is about to occur may be by understanding and appreciating what these colours mean. This helps citizens prepare properly, minimises the impact of inclement weather, and ensures their safety.
SIGNIFICANCE OF THE COLOUR CODES
The IMD uses four colours are orange, red, yellow, and green. The varying shades reflect different degrees of potential risk, which allows people to place a commensurate level of preparedness.
GREEN ALERT (NO ADVISORY)
The green alert means there are normal weather conditions with little or no rain. This is generally accompanied by weak, intermittent rain or dry weather during the monsoon. Essentially, when this Alert is issued, it also means there are no serious weather-related issues, and it is a situation where people can go outdoors and conduct their everyday business as they please.
YELLOW ALERT (BE AWARE)
A yellow alert is issued when there is a chance of significant rainfall. It’s important to understand that a yellow alert does not guarantee heavy rain; rather, it indicates a possibility of isolated flooding in low-lying areas and potential disruptions to outdoor activities. Residents in affected areas should remain vigilant, especially in places prone to frost. It’s advisable to drive carefully and bring umbrellas.
ORANGE ALERT (PREPARE FOR IMPACT)
An orange alert is issued when intense rainfall is expected; usually, 115.6 mm and up to 204.4 mm of rain are predicted in 24 hours. An orange alert indicates an increased chance of flooding in streets, streams and vulnerable areas. Residents should remain indoors if possible, stock supplies, and be ready for possible transportation issues, loss of power and potential landslides.
RED ALERT (TAKE ACTION)
The red alert is the most serious of weather warnings; extreme heavy rainfall of over 204.5 mm is predicted in 24 hours. A red alert indicates a serious threat to life and property with the potential for a degree of flooding, disruption to essential services and the need to evacuate. Under a red alert, personal safety is paramount; do not travel and obey local authorities.
Understanding the IMD colour-coded alerts is critical for personal safety during the monsoon. By observing the alerts, residents can take appropriate action based on the predicted weather that will keep them safe at a time of unpredictable weather. Be it a light shower or a red alert, the key to weathering the monsoon is awareness.