The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has forecast light to moderate rainfall across several parts of North Chhattisgarh over the next five days, offering hope for improved monsoon activity after the state recorded a significant rainfall deficit so far this season.

According to the weather department, several districts, including Raipur, are likely to witness rain accompanied by thunderstorms and lightning. Residents have been advised to avoid open fields, trees and electricity poles during adverse weather conditions.

Rainfall Activity Expected to Improve

During the past 24 hours, light rainfall was reported at several places in the Surguja division and in parts of the Bastar division. The highest rainfall during the period was recorded at Kharora, where 10 mm of rain was measured.

Meteorologists expect intermittent rainfall across many districts over the next few days, although heavy and widespread precipitation is not currently forecast.

State Still Below Normal Rainfall

Despite recent showers, Chhattisgarh continues to face a rainfall deficit.

Official data show that the state has received 252.4 mm of rainfall so far this monsoon season, compared to the normal 320.6 mm, leaving the cumulative rainfall around 21–24 per cent below normal.

Out of the state's 32 districts, 16 districts continue to report below-normal rainfall, highlighting uneven monsoon distribution across Chhattisgarh.

Sarangarh-Bilaigarh Leads Rainfall Chart

Among all districts, Sarangarh-Bilaigarh has recorded the highest rainfall this season with 462.5 mm, nearly 74 per cent above normal, making it the only district to fall in the "excess rainfall" category.

Mungeli has also received above-normal rainfall with 331.8 mm, approximately 21 per cent higher than the seasonal average.

Several districts, including Raipur, Balod, Baloda Bazar, Balrampur, Dantewada, Janjgir-Champa, Khairagarh-Chhuikhadan-Gandai, Mahasamund, Rajnandgaon, Korba and Bilaspur, have recorded rainfall ranging from near-normal to moderately below normal.

Raipur Forecast

For Raipur, the IMD has predicted cloudy skies throughout Monday, with the possibility of thunderstorms and rainfall during the day.

The city is expected to record a maximum temperature of around 34°C and a minimum temperature of about 27°C.

The weather department has maintained a similar forecast for the next two days, indicating light to moderate rainfall at isolated locations along with thunder and lightning.

Relief Expected for Farmers

The first half of July is considered a crucial period for sowing kharif crops, particularly paddy.

Agricultural experts say the rainfall deficit in several districts has affected sowing activities and early crop growth. If the forecast rainfall between July 13 and July 15 materialises, it could improve soil moisture levels and provide much-needed relief to farmers preparing or continuing cultivation.

Authorities have advised people to remain alert during thunderstorms and follow weather advisories issued by local administrations.