Thunderstorm warning: 13 states put on storm alert, schools in Haryana to remain shut for 2 days

In a major weather alert, Thunderstorms accompanied by squall, hail and heavy rains are likely to occur in at least 13 states and two Union Territories across the country on Monday, the home ministry said.

Thunderstorm accompanied with squall and hail are very likely at isolated places over Jammu and Kashmir and Himachal Pradesh while thunderstorm accompanied with gusty winds are very likely on Monday at isolated places in Uttarakhand and Punjab, reported Hindustan Times.

Heavy rains are likely on Monday at isolated places over Assam, Meghalaya, Nagaland, Manipur, Mizoram and Tripura, a home ministry official said quoting the weather department. Thunderstorm will be very likely at isolated places over Jammu and Kashmir, Uttarakhand, Himachal Pradesh, Punjab, Haryana, Chandigarh, Delhi and western Uttar Pradesh.

Keeping in mind the extreme weather conditions, in Haryana, private schools will remain closed on May 7 and May 8. Haryana revenue and disaster management department has issued advisory suggesting safety tips to be adopted in case of bad weather conditions.

A government spokesperson said all departments have been directed to stay alert and prepare emergency kits with essential items for safety and survival. Dust storm and thunderstorm are also likely at isolated places in West Rajasthan, the official further added.