UTTARAPEDIA · 1 / 8

Find the issue date

A saved map may be genuine but old. Read when the bulletin was issued.

Find the issue date · UttaraPedia · explanatory diagram based on IMD legend

UTTARAPEDIA · 2 / 8

Match state and district

Do not carry a district warning to a neighbouring district merely because the pins look close.

Match state and district · UttaraPedia · explanatory diagram based on IMD legend

UTTARAPEDIA · 3 / 8

Subdivision is broader

A meteorological subdivision can contain several districts. Look for the most relevant official layer.

Subdivision is broader · UttaraPedia · explanatory diagram based on IMD legend

UTTARAPEDIA · 4 / 8

Read the validity note

The forecast day may run from 08:30 IST to 08:30 IST next day when the bulletin says so.

Read the validity note · UttaraPedia · explanatory diagram based on IMD legend

UTTARAPEDIA · 5 / 8

Day 1 is not always midnight

Do not assume a coloured panel expires at 00:00. Use the printed valid period.

Day 1 is not always midnight · UttaraPedia · explanatory diagram based on IMD legend

UTTARAPEDIA · 6 / 8

Look for a newer update

Weather information is time-sensitive. Reopen the official page before departure.

Look for a newer update · UttaraPedia · explanatory diagram based on IMD legend

UTTARAPEDIA · 7 / 8

Keep the legend attached

A cropped map can remove symbols, colour meanings and coverage terms.

Keep the legend attached · UttaraPedia · explanatory diagram based on IMD legend

UTTARAPEDIA · 8 / 8

Share context, not panic

Place, time, hazard and action make the warning useful without exaggeration.

Share context, not panic · UttaraPedia · explanatory diagram based on IMD legend

Read the full guide