Continuous heavy rainfall has disrupted normal life across Chhattisgarh, with rivers and streams overflowing, flood-like conditions reported in several districts, and weather-related incidents claiming multiple lives. The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has forecast heavy rain, thunderstorms and lightning across many parts of the state over the next 48 hours.

Among the major incidents, a 55-year-old man drowned while attempting to cross a swollen stream in Gariaband district, while five people were killed in separate lightning strikes across the state.

Man Swept Away While Crossing Stream

The victim, identified as Thanwar Yadav (55) of Sahaspur village, was swept away while crossing the overflowing Sargi stream in Gariaband district. According to local residents, he was reportedly under the influence of alcohol when he entered the flooded stream.

His body was recovered nearly five kilometres away near Khuteri village after an extensive search.

Sikaser Dam Water Released

Authorities have released 15,000 cusecs of water from the Sikaser Dam, prompting an alert for villages situated along the Pairi River.

District administrations have advised residents living near riverbanks and low-lying areas to remain vigilant and avoid venturing into flooded streams or waterlogged roads.

Lightning Claims Five Lives

Heavy rain has also been accompanied by widespread lightning strikes.

According to officials:

• Three villagers lost their lives in Manendragarh-Chirmiri-Bharatpur district.

• A farmer was killed by lightning in Surajpur.

• A woman labourer died in Gaurela-Pendra-Marwahi.

At least 11 other people sustained injuries in separate lightning-related incidents and are undergoing treatment.

Search Continues for Missing Couple

Rescue teams are continuing their search for former sarpanch Devnarayan Patel and his wife, whose car was swept away in the overflowing Lat Nala in Sarangarh-Barmkela two days ago.

Despite continuous rescue operations, the couple remains missing.

Flood-Like Situation in Gariaband

Several areas of Gariaband district are witnessing flood-like conditions following incessant rainfall.

Water has been flowing above the Kholapara stream on the Chhindola-Amamora road, cutting off road connectivity between the district headquarters and villages including Amamora, Odh, Kukrar and Nagarar.

In another incident, a motorcyclist attempting to cross the flooded stream lost control of his vehicle but was rescued by local residents before being swept away.

Rain Likely to Continue

The Meteorological Department has predicted that most parts of Chhattisgarh will continue to receive light to moderate rainfall, while isolated areas may witness heavy rain accompanied by thunderstorms and lightning over the next two days.

In Raipur, the forecast indicates cloudy skies with intermittent heavy showers. The maximum temperature is expected to remain around 27°C, while the minimum may hover near 23°C.

The highest maximum temperature in the state on Tuesday was 30.8°C in Durg, while Pendra Road recorded the lowest minimum temperature at 21.6°C.

Deep Depression Driving Heavy Rain

Meteorologists said the ongoing spell is being driven by a deep depression over Odisha and adjoining regions, which is moving towards northern Odisha, southern Jharkhand and northern Chhattisgarh. An active monsoon trough is also supplying abundant moisture, resulting in widespread rainfall across the state.

Authorities have urged people to avoid crossing flooded rivers, streams and causeways, remain indoors during thunderstorms, and follow local weather advisories until conditions improve.