Chhattisgarh is likely to witness another spell of rain over the coming week, with the weather department forecasting light to moderate showers across several parts of the state and heavy rainfall at some locations. The forecast comes as rain-related incidents were reported from different districts. In Bilaspur's Malhar area, two youths were swept away with their motorcycle while attempting to cross the Leelagar river on August 20, but were rescued by local residents. In Manendragarh, strong water flow damaged a decades-old culvert near Janakpur, forcing authorities to restrict the movement of heavy vehicles.
According to the information provided, the two youths in Bilaspur became trapped in the strong current while crossing the river with their motorcycle. Mohan Lal Kevat, Mahesh Kevat and Aditya Kevat, residents of Manadera, used a wooden pole to help pull them out. The three were later recognised by the police for their timely intervention. Meanwhile, the approximately 50-year-old culvert over the Gohdari river near Janakpur in Manendragarh suffered extensive damage after the water level and flow increased. Around 70% of the structure has reportedly been affected after some of its pillars broke, prompting restrictions on heavy vehicles as a safety measure. The incidents underline the risks posed by swollen rivers and damaged crossings during periods of intense rainfall.
The state's overall monsoon rainfall remains close to normal. Between June 1 and August 20, Chhattisgarh received an average of 771.8 mm of rain against the normal 818.7 mm for the period, leaving the state 6% below normal. However, the district-wise distribution remains uneven. Sarangarh-Bilaigarh has recorded the highest surplus, with 1,014.6 mm of rainfall, 55% above its normal 653 mm. Balrampur is 45% above normal, followed by Mungeli at 35%, Mahasamund at 26%, Baloda Bazar at 25%, Janjgir at 21% and Narayanpur at 21%. At the other end, Surguja has received 499.7 mm against a normal 851.6 mm, leaving the district 41% deficient. Bemetara and Kanker are each 39% below normal, while Jashpur has a 33% deficit. Bastar and Kondagaon are 25% and 22% below normal, respectively.
Raipur has received 805.5 mm of rainfall so far this season, around 12% above its normal 722.2 mm. Durg, on the other hand, has recorded 606.3 mm against a normal 707.4 mm, a 14% shortfall, though it remains within the normal category. The weather forecast indicates that several parts of the state may continue to receive light to moderate rain over the next few days, with isolated areas likely to see heavy showers accompanied by thunder and lightning. In Raipur, showers with thunderstorms are expected on August 22, with the maximum temperature likely to remain around 29°C and the minimum around 25°C. With rivers and water crossings already responding to the rainfall, authorities and commuters in vulnerable areas will need to remain cautious as the wet spell continues.
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