IMD has issued an amber alert for Tuesday; Here is what it means

NATIONAL | May 8, 2018:

A powerful dust storm swept across North India on Monday night with a wind speed of up to 70 kilometres per hour resulting in low visibility, power disruption and damage to property.

Delhi, Rajasthan, Uttar Pradesh, Haryana and Punjab reported gusty winds and squalls. Tress and electricity poles were uprooted in Dehradun and other areas in Uttarakhand.

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The storm came within days of the thunderstorm that hit parts of north and west India on May 2 and left more than 100 people dead.

The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued an amber alert for Tuesday, which means the administration has to remain on alert.

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Four colour codes are issued to indicate various categories of alerts. Here is what each alert means:

Yellow (Be aware): Severely bad weather is possible over the next few days, plan ahead thinking about possible travel delays and disruption of day-to-day activities possible. It indicates the weather may change or worsen in the next few days.

Amber (Be prepared): There is an increased likelihood of extremely bad weather, which could potentially cause travel delays, road and rail closures, and interruption of power supply. There could be risk to life and property. Amber means people need to be prepared to change plans and protect themselves, their family and community from the impacts of the severe weather based on the forecast from the Met Office.

Red (Take action): Extremely bad weather is expected. People need to take action to keep themselves and others safe. Widespread damage, travel and power disruption and risk to life are likely. People must avoid dangerous areas and follow the advice of the emergency services and local authorities.

Source: The Hindustan Times

Featured image: Representation