India's weather forecast could affect your travel plans this weekend: IMD forecast travellers need to check
ETimes June 19, 2026 01:39 PM
India's weather map is entering one of its most dynamic phases of the year as the southwest monsoon continues its gradual advance across the country. The latest weather bulletin issued by the India Meteorological Department (IMD) indicates changing conditions over several regions, bringing a mix of widespread rainfall, thunderstorms, gusty winds and heat-wave conditions through the coming days.
In some regions, incoming monsoon showers are expected to transform landscapes into greener and more inviting destinations. In others, intense weather activity could influence road journeys, sightseeing schedules and outdoor travel plans.
According to IMD, conditions remain favourable for further advance of the southwest monsoon into additional parts of Telangana, Odisha, Jharkhand, Bihar and Chhattisgarh during the next four to five days. The gradual spread of the monsoon is closely watched not only by farmers and meteorologists but also by the travel sector, since this period often marks a shift in tourism patterns.
For many travellers, monsoon travel carries a distinct appeal. Dry landscapes begin changing colour, waterfalls become active, forests regain their lush appearance and hill regions take on a fresh character. However, the same weather systems that create these seasonal landscapes can also temporarily affect transportation and local conditions.
Northern India presents one of the more varied weather situations this week. Rainfall activity is likely across parts of Jammu and Kashmir, Ladakh, Himachal Pradesh and Uttarakhand, with some areas expected to experience thunderstorms and strong winds. Isolated hailstorm activity has also been forecast in certain Himalayan regions.
For tourists planning road journeys through mountain states, weather conditions may become an important factor in trip planning. Mountain routes are particularly sensitive to sudden weather changes. Rainfall and gusty winds can reduce visibility along highways and mountain roads, while isolated intense showers occasionally lead to slower traffic movement.
Summer has traditionally been one of the busiest seasons for northern hill destinations, especially as families and leisure travellers seek relief from the plains. While many visitors enjoy the cooler atmosphere and mist-covered landscapes created by rain, weather-related interruptions are not uncommon during this transition period.
The eastern and northeastern regions of the country are likely to witness some of the most active weather during the coming week. States including Assam, Meghalaya, Arunachal Pradesh and parts of Sub-Himalayan West Bengal and Sikkim are expected to receive widespread rainfall, with heavy to very heavy rainfall forecast in isolated areas.
This area is well-known for its striking landscape and tourism in connection with the natural environment. The rains sometimes add an additional attraction to the rivers, valleys, and forests. On the other hand, excessive rainfall may sometimes impact the transportation systems and outdoor activities.
Destinations in the Northeast often experience a different rhythm during the rainy season. Although some travellers are particularly looking forward to visiting this area because of the beautiful landscapes at this time of year, others try to be more flexible in planning their travel.
The weather pattern over western and coastal parts of India also indicates active conditions. Rainfall is expected over Konkan and Goa, Gujarat, Madhya Maharashtra and surrounding regions over the coming days. Kerala and Coastal Karnataka are also expected to continue receiving significant rainfall activity.
For coastal tourism, the monsoon season often creates a different atmosphere from the busy winter months. Beaches become quieter, landscapes appear greener and some destinations attract visitors looking for seasonal experiences rather than traditional beach holidays.
However, marine weather conditions are being closely monitored. IMD has issued advisories for fishermen in parts of the Arabian Sea and Bay of Bengal due to squally weather and strong winds over several coastal stretches. Such advisories can also indirectly affect tourism activities connected to the sea, including local boat services and water-based experiences.
South India is expected to witness a combination of rainfall and thunderstorms over states including Karnataka, Telangana, Andhra Pradesh, Kerala and Tamil Nadu. Some areas are also likely to experience strong surface winds.
Meanwhile, not all parts of the country are receiving relief from heat. Several regions continue to remain under heat-wave conditions despite advancing monsoon activity elsewhere. Parts of Uttar Pradesh, Telangana, Vidarbha, Madhya Maharashtra and Marathwada are expected to witness continued high temperatures.
For travellers, this creates an unusual contrast. Even as one portion of the nation braces itself for rains and cool weather, the other part is dealing with scorching heat in the daytime.
Such times see changes in tourism patterns as well. Tourists coming into cities and tourist spots affected by heat might become increasingly inclined towards morning and evening excursions while avoiding outdoor trips during the hottest afternoon time.
The upcoming week is thus a good representation of the realities of travel in the monsoon transition phase of India. The weather may affect travel in different ways according to the destination being travelled to. While some may experience the monsoon landscape and pleasant environment, others may face disruptions caused by the rains and storms.
As the monsoon weather keeps advancing across the country, travel plans may need to become increasingly flexible. Seasonal travel often offers some of India's most visually rewarding experiences, but changing weather conditions can become an equally important part of the journey itself.
