JournalHow to Read Weather Forecasts Before a Mountain Expedition
In short: Read weather like a decision tool: check IMD forecasts and colour-coded warnings for your districts, compare the trend over several days, use lightning and alert apps, and set clear go or no-go rules before you leave. In the mountains, conditions can change within hours.
Quick facts
| Official source | India Meteorological Department (IMD) |
|---|---|
| Warning colours | Green, yellow, orange, red |
| Apps | IMD's Mausam and Damini (lightning) apps and NDMA's Sachet alerts |
Where to look
- IMD district and city forecasts and colour-coded warnings.
- IMD's Mausam app for forecasts and Damini for lightning alerts.
- NDMA's Sachet alerts, which relay official disaster warnings by region.
- Local advice from forest offices, estates and homestay hosts.
What the colours mean for you
| Warning | Typical meaning | Your action |
|---|---|---|
| Green | No special warning | Proceed with normal care |
| Yellow | Be aware; conditions may disrupt plans | Stay updated and keep options open |
| Orange | Be prepared; severe weather likely | Reconsider exposed or remote plans |
| Red | Take action; extreme weather expected | Postpone or avoid the area |
Rainfall categories
IMD describes rainfall in 24 hours as light, moderate, heavy (about 64.5 to 115.5 mm), very heavy (about 115.6 to 204.4 mm) and extremely heavy (above about 204.4 mm). Heavy to extremely heavy rain raises the risk of landslides, flash floods and closed roads in the hills.
A go or no-go routine
- Check the forecast three days out, the day before and the morning of the trip.
- Compare IMD with at least one other source and note any disagreement.
- Set rules in advance: for example, no crossing of rivers or high passes if orange or red warnings apply.
- Plan a Plan B: a lower route, a homestay or a day of waiting.
- Remember that mountain weather can differ sharply from the forecast for the nearest town.
Related guides
See driving in the Himalayas, river crossing safety and rainy-season camping.
Frequently asked questions
What is the best source for weather in India?
IMD is the official source; cross-check with a second source and local advice.
What does an orange alert mean?
Be prepared for severe weather; consider changing or postponing plans.
Should I rely on a single app?
No. Use IMD and at least one other source.
When should I postpone a trip?
When red warnings apply, or when conditions make roads, rivers or camps unsafe.
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