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 AnswerMD 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.
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.
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