IMD Issues Orange Alert for Telangana: Hyderabad Braces for Heavy Rainfall in the Coming Days
The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has placed Telangana under an orange alert, warning of heavy rainfall and thunderstorms across the state, especially in Hyderabad. The downpour is expected to continue for several days, raising concerns of waterlogging, traffic snarls, and potential flooding in low-lying areas. Residents have been urged to remain cautious and follow safety advisories.
By: Bharat Daily Samachar Date: 26 Sep,2025
Introduction
The monsoon has once again tightened its grip over Telangana. The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued an orange alert for the state, cautioning residents about heavy rainfall, thunderstorms, and gusty winds in the coming days. Hyderabad, Telangana’s bustling capital, is likely to bear the brunt of these downpours, with forecasts suggesting continuous rainfall for several days.
This warning comes as a reminder of how unpredictable and intense the monsoon season can be, bringing both relief from scorching heat and challenges such as waterlogging, traffic disruptions, and the risk of flash floods.
What Does an Orange Alert Mean?
The IMD categorizes its weather warnings into four color codes: green (no warning), yellow (watch), orange (be prepared), and red (take action).
An orange alert is serious—it signals the likelihood of heavy to very heavy rainfall in isolated areas, which could disrupt daily life. Authorities and residents are advised to stay vigilant, prepare for possible flooding, and avoid unnecessary travel.
For Hyderabad, this means commuters should brace for longer travel times, while low-lying residential colonies may face waterlogging issues if the showers persist.
Hyderabad in the Eye of the Storm
The IMD has specifically highlighted Hyderabad as a key city expected to receive continuous showers over the next few days.
Key Impacts Expected:
Traffic Snarls: With Hyderabad’s already congested roads, even moderate rain often causes traffic chaos. Heavy rains could worsen jams, particularly in IT corridors and old city areas.
Waterlogging: Areas like Begumpet, LB Nagar, Secunderabad, and Kukatpally are prone to flooding.
Power Cuts: Past experiences show that strong winds and downpours can disrupt power supply in some localities.
Health Concerns: Stagnant water could increase the risk of mosquito breeding, raising fears of dengue and malaria.
IMD’s Rainfall Forecast
According to IMD officials, the rains are being triggered by a low-pressure system over the Bay of Bengal, which is driving moist winds into Telangana. This weather system is likely to persist for several days, fueling rainfall across the state.
Light to moderate rains: Expected across most districts.
Heavy rainfall warnings: For Hyderabad, Warangal, Karimnagar, Nizamabad, and Khammam.
Thunderstorms with lightning: Likely in several parts of Telangana, posing risks to outdoor activities.
Government Preparedness
The Telangana State Disaster Management Authority (TSDMA) has activated its control rooms and issued advisories to district administrations. Urban local bodies, including the Greater Hyderabad Municipal Corporation (GHMC), have been instructed to:
Clear stormwater drains to prevent flooding.
Deploy emergency response teams in flood-prone zones.
Keep pumps ready to drain excess water from underpasses and subways.
Ensure citizens have helpline numbers for assistance.
The police have also warned commuters to avoid venturing into waterlogged streets and to follow real-time traffic advisories.
Citizens’ Concerns
While the rain brings welcome relief from the hot and humid conditions, Hyderabadis know too well the chaos that follows. Social media is already abuzz with discussions about:
Office-Goers’ Woes: Employees in IT hubs like Hitec City and Gachibowli often find themselves stuck in prolonged traffic jams.
Flooded Basements: Residents of apartments in low-lying areas worry about water entering parking lots and ground floors.
Public Transport Delays: Buses and metro services may run late due to flooding near stations and depots.
For daily wage workers and street vendors, prolonged showers can also mean loss of income.
Tips for Residents During Heavy Rainfall
With the orange alert in place, safety must be the top priority. Experts and civic officials suggest the following precautions:
Avoid unnecessary travel during peak rainfall hours.
Do not step into flooded areas—open drains or live wires may be hidden under water.
Keep emergency numbers handy, including GHMC helplines.
Stock essentials such as drinking water, dry food, and medicines.
Protect against mosquito bites by using repellents and keeping surroundings dry.
Work from home if possible, especially in IT and corporate sectors, to reduce road congestion.
A Broader Climate Context
This year’s unpredictable rainfall patterns highlight the larger issue of climate change. Experts point out that:
Urban flooding has become more common in Hyderabad due to unplanned construction and shrinking lakes.
Rainfall patterns are becoming more intense but erratic, leading to short bursts of heavy downpours rather than steady monsoon showers.
City drainage systems are not fully equipped to handle such surges.
Unless urban planning integrates climate resilience measures, Hyderabad and similar cities will continue to face monsoon woes.
Possible Silver Lining
While heavy rains disrupt daily life, they also bring some positives:
Recharge of Groundwater: Much-needed relief for a state that often faces water shortages.
Cooler Temperatures: A break from the stifling heat of September.
Improved Green Cover: Parks, lakes, and agricultural fields benefit from rainfall, supporting crops and reducing water stress.
Conclusion
The IMD’s orange alert for Telangana serves as both a warning and an opportunity. For Hyderabad, the message is clear: stay cautious, stay prepared, and stay safe. While rains are an unavoidable part of life in the monsoon season, how the city and its people respond determines whether they turn into a disaster or a manageable challenge.
As the skies continue to pour, Hyderabad must find ways to adapt—through better planning, efficient governance, and community cooperation. For now, residents should brace for days of wet commutes, cloudy skies, and hopefully, safer roads ahead.