Chhattisgarh is expected to witness another spell of intense monsoon activity over the next 48 hours, with the India Meteorological Department (IMD) forecasting heavy rainfall across several districts in central and northern parts of the state. The warning comes after Bilaspur recorded its highest single-day rainfall in 93 years, triggering widespread flooding, transport disruptions and one reported death.

According to the weather department, a low-pressure area over West Bengal, Jharkhand and Odisha continues to draw moisture into Chhattisgarh, resulting in persistent rainfall across the region over the past 24 hours.

Bilaspur Sees Historic Rainfall

Bilaspur received 415.6 mm (more than 16 inches) of rainfall within 24 hours, surpassing the city's previous record of 14.93 inches set in 1933. The unprecedented downpour submerged roads, residential colonies and public infrastructure, bringing normal life to a standstill.

Several low-lying localities, including Shrikant Verma Marg, Hansa Vihar, Mitra Vihar and Shivam Homes, remained inundated as floodwaters entered hundreds of houses.

The National Highway passing through the city was submerged under 4 to 5 feet of water, severely affecting vehicular movement.

One Dead, Rescue Operations Launched

A woman died after being swept away in strong floodwaters in the Lingiyadih area of Sarkanda. Authorities launched rescue operations as water levels continued to rise in several neighbourhoods.

The State Disaster Response Force (SDRF) deployed motorboats to evacuate residents stranded in flooded colonies.

Rail, Road and Power Services Hit

The heavy rainfall disrupted transport and essential services across Bilaspur.

Railway tracks, station premises and railway yards were inundated, forcing authorities to cancel seven trains and divert four others. Around 80 bus services were also affected due to waterlogged roads and flooded highways.

Power supply was suspended in several localities after 17 transformers were submerged, with officials citing safety concerns.

Schools remained closed in affected areas, while examinations were disrupted because of the extreme weather.

Heavy Rain Across Bilaspur Division

Apart from Bilaspur, several districts in the division also recorded substantial rainfall during the past 24 hours.

Janjgir-Champa received 170 mm of rainfall, followed by Sarangarh-Bilaigarh (75 mm), Mungeli (58.8 mm), Korba (47.4 mm), Sakti (38.5 mm), Raigarh (34 mm) and Gaurela-Pendra-Marwahi (33.7 mm).

Within Bilaspur district, Sipat and Takhatpur recorded 110.2 mm each, while Masturi received 96.2 mm and Sakri recorded 95.4 mm, leading to flood-like conditions in multiple areas.

Rain Likely to Continue

The IMD has forecast cloudy skies with intermittent rain and thunderstorms in Raipur on Saturday. The state capital is expected to record a maximum temperature of around 30°C and a minimum of 25°C.

Weather officials have warned that rainfall is likely to continue over the next two days, with heavy to very heavy showers, thunderstorms and lightning expected at isolated places.

Authorities Advise Caution

Officials have advised residents, particularly those living in low-lying areas, to remain alert as continued rainfall may cause waterlogging, overflowing streams and disruption to road connectivity.

The administration is monitoring the situation closely, while disaster response teams remain on standby in vulnerable districts as the state braces for another round of intense monsoon activity.