India’s big holiday falls on August 15, right in the middle of the monsoon season. If you’re planning a parade, a family picnic, or a trip to a historic site, you’ll want to know whether to pack an umbrella or a sunhat. Below you’ll find the latest outlook from the India Meteorological Department, broken down by region, plus easy‑to‑follow tips to stay comfortable.
Overall, the country is likely to see a mix of heat and rain. Most states will have daytime highs between 30°C and 36°C, with humidity staying above 70 % in many places. The central and northern plains (Delhi, Uttar Pradesh, Haryana) are expected to have scattered thunderstorms in the afternoon, especially in the south‑west direction where the monsoon is strongest.
Coastal regions like Mumbai, Chennai and Kolkata will face heavier showers. The IMD has issued a yellow alert for the west coast, meaning rain could reach 30‑50 mm in a day. Expect gusty winds and occasional flooding in low‑lying areas, so keep an eye on local news.
In the Himalayan belt (Ladakh, Himachal, Uttarakhand) the weather will be cooler, with highs around 22°C‑27°C and a lower chance of rain. However, the higher elevations could still get isolated showers, so pack a light jacket.
**North India** – If you’re heading to Delhi or nearby cities, start early. Morning temperatures will be pleasant (around 28°C) but the heat can rise quickly after noon. Carry a small bottle of water, wear breathable clothes, and be ready for sudden rain bursts between 2 pm and 5 pm.
**East India** – Kolkata and surrounding areas will see the most rain on Independence Day. Plan indoor activities for the afternoon and keep your phone in a waterproof pouch. If you must travel, consider using city metros or rideshare services that can navigate traffic jams caused by water‑logged streets.
**West India** – Mumbai’s forecast shows a chance of intermittent showers throughout the day. Wear waterproof shoes and avoid open‑air markets during peak rain. The city’s drainage system usually handles the volume, but you might face crowded trains during the rush hour.
**South India** – Chennai and Hyderabad will experience moderate rain with a chance of thunderstorms. Use a sturdy umbrella and avoid low‑lying parks after 3 pm when the risk of flash floods spikes.
**Central India** – Madhya Pradesh and Chhattisgarh will stay relatively dry, but humidity will stay high. Fatigue can set in faster, so take short breaks and stay hydrated.
**Travelers** – If you’re flying, check with airlines for possible delays; monsoon storms often affect runway visibility. Roads can become slick, especially on bridges and highway sections near rivers. A good rule of thumb: leave at least 30 minutes extra for any journey on Independence Day.
**Health** – High humidity can make the heat feel worse. Apply sunscreen in the morning, reapply after any rain, and keep an eye on any signs of dehydration. For those with asthma, carry inhalers; sudden drops in temperature during rain showers can trigger symptoms.
With a bit of planning, the Independence Day celebrations can stay fun and safe despite the monsoon mood. Keep this guide handy, stay tuned to local alerts, and enjoy the patriotic spirit with confidence.
India’s 79th Independence Day will be a wet, cooler affair for many regions. Delhi-NCR will see cloudy skies with light to moderate rain, temperatures around 22–33°C, and a high chance of showers during morning and evening. IMD expects heavy rain in parts of Uttar Pradesh and Uttarakhand, raising risks of waterlogging and landslides. Celebrations at Red Fort should proceed under overcast skies.