LUCKNOW, July 18 -- Monsoon activity in the state is set to intensify starting Saturday, said the India Meteorological Department (IMD), warning of more rain, thunderstorms, lightning and isolated heavy showers over the next 24 hours. Widespread rainfall is expected, and an 'Orange Alert' has been issued for heavy rainfall from July 18 to 23, with very heavy rainfall likely between July 19 and 22.

According to the IMD, Varanasi (BHU) received 54.2 mm of rain during the 24-hour period ending Friday evening, followed by Gorakhpur at 36.4 mm, Bahraich at 17.4 mm and Meerut at 15 mm.

Light rainfall was also reported from Prayagraj 0.6 mm, Fursatganj 0.1 mm, Najibabad 1 mm, Varanasi Airport 1.3 mm, Churk 4.4 mm and while traces of rain were ...