The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued a red alert for parts of Jammu and Kashmir, Himachal Pradesh, Punjab, and Rajasthan as the monsoon intensifies across northern India.

According to the IMD, these regions are likely to experience heavy to very heavy rainfall over the next 48 hours. Local authorities have been put on high alert, with warnings of possible flooding, landslides, and traffic disruptions.

In Himachal Pradesh and Jammu and Kashmir, officials have cautioned residents in hilly and landslide-prone areas to remain vigilant. Several rivers are reported to be flowing close to the danger mark, raising concerns of flash floods.

Punjab and Rajasthan are also bracing for intense downpours, with district administrations advising people to avoid unnecessary travel. Farmers have been asked to take protective measures for standing crops amid fears of waterlogging.

The weather department has also advised state governments to keep disaster response teams on standby to deal with emergencies.

The ongoing heavy rainfall has once again highlighted the challenges of managing the monsoon season in northern India, where both urban flooding and rural crop damage remain persistent risks.