Context: 

Recently, the IMD issued colour-coded alerts for the Northeast India and Marathwada region of Central Maharashtra. 

Key highlights:

  • The India Meteorology Department (IMD) issued a yellow alert indicating moderate to heavy rainfall in several pockets of central Maharashtra and Marathwada regions including Sholapur, Nanded, Latur, Osmanabad, Amravati, Chandrapur, Gadchiroli and Nagpur. 
  • The IMD issued an ‘Orange Alert’ and forecast “heavy to very heavy” rainfall across several states of the northeast over the next five days. 

India Meteorological Department (IMD) 

  • It was established in 1875. 
  • It is the primary government agency responsible for weather forecasting, meteorological observations, and seismology in India. 
  • It functions under the Ministry of Earth Sciences.

Function of IMD:

  • IMD provides weather forecasts across various time scales, ranging from short-term nowcasts to extended range forecasts and seasonal outlooks.They also issue weather warnings for severe weather events like cyclones.
  • IMD offers meteorological services for various sectors including agriculture, aviation, civil aviation and disaster management.
  • IMD monitors seismic activity in the country.

IMD four-color coded system:

  • Green: This code signifies “all is well” and indicates no adverse weather is expected. No advisory is issued.
  • Yellow: A yellow alert means “be aware” of bad weather conditions. This could include heavy rain, thunderstorms, or snowfall that could disrupt daily activities.
  • Orange: An orange alert is issued for “be prepared” situations. This indicates extremely bad weather is likely, with the possibility of disruptions to travel, power outages, and communication issues.
  • Red: This is the most severe warning level, signifying “take action.” A red alert is issued when extremely hazardous weather conditions are guaranteed, posing a significant risk to life and property.

These alerts are universal and are not used exclusively for rainfall but for a range of natural calamities including floods, cyclones, snowstorms and other dangerous weather events. 

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