India faces extreme weather year-round—from monsoons and floods to heatwaves and cyclones. To help citizens prepare, the India Meteorological Department (IMD) issues colour-coded weather alerts that indicate the severity of upcoming conditions. Understanding these warnings can help you protect your home, health, and loved ones before disaster strikes.
Quick Answer
MD weather alerts range from Green (no risk) to Red (life-threatening danger). Knowing what each colour means helps you take timely action—whether it’s staying alert, preparing supplies, or evacuating to safety.
Table of Contents
Understanding IMD Color-Coded Weather Alerts
IMD uses a four-colour system to communicate weather risk levels clearly and quickly.
Green Alert – No Warning
- Normal weather conditions
- No immediate threat
- Safe to continue daily activities
Yellow Alert – Be Aware
- Weather may turn severe
- Possible travel disruptions or discomfort
- Stay updated through official forecasts
Orange Alert – Be Prepared
- Extremely bad weather expected
- High risk of flooding, power cuts, and transport shutdowns
- Stock essentials and avoid unnecessary travel
Red Alert – Take Action
- Severe, life-threatening weather imminent
- Follow evacuation orders immediately
- Avoid all movement unless essential
Being prepared before an alert is issued can save lives.
Essential Preparedness Checklist
- Download “SACHET” app for real-time NDMA alerts
- Emergency kit: water, dry food, torch, batteries, power bank
- Medical needs: first-aid kit, prescriptions, ORS
- Documents: store Aadhaar, passport, insurance in waterproof folders
- Emergency numbers: National Emergency – 112
Monsoon& Flood Safety Tips in India
Before the Rains
- Clean drains and rooftop gutters
- Repair roof leaks and cracks
- Trim weak or dead tree branches
During Flooding
- Never walk or drive through moving water
- Avoid contact with electric poles and wires
- Move to higher ground if water levels rise
Health Precautions
- Drink boiled or filtered water only
- Avoid street food and raw vegetables
- Use mosquito repellents to prevent dengue and malaria
Heatwaves can be deadly, especially for children and the elderly.
How to Stay Safe
- Avoid outdoor activity between 12 pm–3 pm
- Drink water frequently, even if not thirsty
- Consume ORS, buttermilk, lemon water
- Wear light-coloured, loose cotton clothes
- Keep curtains closed during the day, ventilate at night
Cyclone & Thunderstorm Safety Measures
Before the Storm
- Secure loose objects: tin sheets, flower pots, tools
- Charge phones and power banks
- Keep emergency contacts accessible
During the Storm
- Stay indoors, away from windows
- Switch off main electricity and gas supply
- Do not step outside during the cyclone “eye”
After the Storm
- Avoid fallen wires and damaged buildings
- Wait for official clearance before resuming activities
Some people need extra care during extreme weather events.
Special Care Tips
- Elderly & children: keep cool and hydrated
- Pets: provide shade and fresh water
- Chronic illness patients: maintain a week’s supply of medicines
Why Understanding IMD Alerts Matters
IMD weather alerts are not just forecasts—they are early warning systems designed to prevent loss of life and property. Acting early during Yellow or Orange alerts can help you avoid emergencies during Red alerts.
Understanding IMD colour-coded weather alerts empowers you to respond wisely to India’s extreme weather conditions. By staying informed, preparing early, and following official guidance, you can significantly reduce risks to your family and home.
