According to the Meteorological Department, Cyclone Montha has now weakened, and the weather across the state is gradually returning to normal. Rain is expected to stop from Saturday, and temperatures are likely to rise.
Scenes of destruction in Kawardha
On Friday, heavy rain lashed several villages in Kawardha. Harvested paddy that had been left in the fields to dry was submerged in water.
Farmers said the rain came unexpectedly and destroyed everything. One farmer, overwhelmed by the sight of his damaged field, broke down emotionally and collapsed. Villagers said he had pinned all his hopes for the year’s livelihood on that crop.
Montha weakens — relief ahead
According to the India Meteorological Department (IMD), Cyclone Montha, which originated over the Bay of Bengal, has now weakened. The unseasonal rainfall that had affected Raipur, Bilaspur, Raigarh, Surguja, and Kawardha over the last three days is expected to stop.
Weather scientists predict clear skies across the state within 24 hours, with daytime temperatures gradually rising.
Latest temperature and rainfall data
In the past 24 hours, Salhewara recorded the highest rainfall at 80 mm.
Bilaspur recorded a maximum temperature of 30.6°C, while Pendra Road saw a minimum of 19.6°C.
In Raipur and several other districts, residents have begun to feel a slight chill in the mornings and evenings.
Farmers’ troubles a growing concern
Farmers from Kawardha, Bemetara, and Mungeli districts reported that their crops have been completely destroyed. The paddy grains have started rotting, and waterlogged fields will take time to dry.
They have appealed to the administration for compensation and assistance under crop insurance schemes.
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