Hailstorm Warning – What You Need to Know Right Now

Hailstorms can turn a normal day into a nightmare in minutes. If you hear a hailstorm warning in your area, it means severe hail is likely to hit soon, bringing dangerous wind, heavy rain, and fast‑falling ice. Knowing why the warning is issued and what you can do right away makes a huge difference.

Understanding Hailstorm Warnings

India’s meteorological agencies, mainly the IMD, issue a hailstorm warning when satellite and radar data show strong updrafts in thunderstorms that can produce hail larger than a golf ball. These warnings often come with an orange or red alert, indicating the likelihood of hail that can damage roofs, cars, and crops. In recent weeks, places like Delhi‑NCR, Uttar Pradesh, and Rajasthan have seen orange alerts because a Western Disturbance combined with a Bay of Bengal system is fueling intense storms.

The warning includes details such as expected hail size, wind speed, and the time window for the storm. For example, an orange alert for Kolkata ahead of the IPL 2025 opener mentioned gusts of 40–60 km/h and potential hail between 5 pm and 8 pm. These specifics help you decide whether to stay indoors, move your vehicle, or secure outdoor items.

How to Stay Safe During a Hailstorm

First, find shelter immediately. A sturdy building or a car with a solid roof is safer than a wooden shed or an open porch. If you’re outdoors, crouch low, cover your head with a hat or backpack, and avoid standing near windows that could shatter.

Second, protect your property. Move vehicles into a garage or under a sturdy awning. Bring in garden furniture, bicycles, and any loose items that could become projectiles. If you can’t move them, tie them down tightly.

Third, stay informed. Turn on weather alerts on your phone, follow local news, or check the IMD website for real‑time updates. When a warning turns red, it’s usually a sign that hail will be heavy and damaging, so limit travel unless it’s absolutely necessary.

Finally, after the storm, check for damage before resuming normal activities. Look for cracked windows, dented roofs, and blocked drains. Report any severe damage to local authorities, especially if power lines are down.Hailstorm warnings are there to give you a heads‑up. By understanding the signal and acting quickly, you can keep yourself, your family, and your belongings safe. Stay alert, stay prepared, and don’t let a sudden hailstorm catch you off guard.