Chhattisgarh is expected to witness continued weather activity over the next five days, with the India Meteorological Department forecasting thunderstorms, lightning and light to moderate rainfall across several parts of the state.

According to the weather department, the southwest monsoon is likely to advance into additional regions of Chhattisgarh around June 23, potentially increasing rainfall activity in the coming days. The forecast comes after multiple districts recorded showers and thunderstorm activity during the last 24 hours.

While rain brought some relief to parts of the state, temperatures remained high in several areas. Raipur emerged as the hottest location in Chhattisgarh, recording a maximum temperature of 40.8 degrees Celsius. Pendra Road reported the lowest minimum temperature at 22.8 degrees Celsius.

The changing weather pattern has also led to tragic incidents.

In Sakti district, an 11-year-old schoolgirl lost her life after being struck by lightning on Friday evening. The victim, identified as Deepti Chandra, was a Class 6 student and was reportedly playing outside her house in Anda village when the incident occurred.

Preliminary information suggests that lightning struck the area suddenly during unstable weather conditions. The impact proved fatal, and the child died on the spot. The incident has left the local community and the victim’s family in shock.

The fatality highlights the risks associated with lightning strikes during the pre-monsoon and early monsoon period. Authorities and weather experts regularly advise residents to avoid open spaces and seek shelter during thunderstorms, particularly in rural areas where people often remain outdoors.

The Sakti incident is not the only weather-related tragedy reported recently. In Raigarh district, a woman died after a wall collapsed during heavy rain, while two others sustained injuries. Such incidents have raised concerns about public safety as weather conditions become increasingly unpredictable across the region.

Meteorologists say the current weather activity is being driven by favourable atmospheric conditions supporting thundercloud formation over central and northern parts of the state. As the monsoon progresses further into Chhattisgarh, more districts could experience spells of rain accompanied by gusty winds and lightning.

In Raipur, partly cloudy skies are expected through the day, with the possibility of thunderstorms and rain. The maximum temperature is likely to remain around 40 degrees Celsius, while the minimum temperature may hover near 27 degrees Celsius.

Officials have urged residents to remain cautious during periods of thunderstorm activity. People have been advised to avoid standing under trees, near electric poles, or in open fields when lightning is reported. Farmers, outdoor workers and children have been identified as particularly vulnerable during such weather events.

With the monsoon expected to advance further into the state this week, authorities are closely monitoring weather developments. Further updates are expected as conditions evolve.