A fresh spell of monsoon activity has intensified across Madhya Pradesh, prompting the India Meteorological Department (IMD) to issue a heavy rainfall alert for six districts over the next 24 hours. Meanwhile, three people, including an 11-year-old child, lost their lives after lightning strikes in Shahdol district, while several others sustained injuries during thunderstorms on Sunday.

According to the IMD Bhopal, heavy rainfall is likely in Umaria, Shahdol, Anuppur, Dindori, Mandla and Balaghat on Monday. Weather officials have also warned that heavy to very heavy rainfall may continue across parts of the state until July 30 due to multiple active weather systems.

Three Dead in Lightning Incidents

Shahdol district witnessed multiple lightning-related incidents amid intense rainfall on Sunday.

In the first incident under the Jaitpur police station area, a woman identified as Kishan (28) was struck by lightning while transplanting paddy in a field near Jhink village. She was initially taken to the local hospital and later referred to the district hospital, where she succumbed during treatment.

Two other people were injured in the same incident and are reported to be in stable condition.

Separate lightning strikes elsewhere in the district claimed two more lives, including an 11-year-old child. Police have registered cases and initiated investigations into all the incidents.

Multiple Weather Systems Active

Meteorologist Arun Sharma said an active monsoon trough, along with a low-pressure area, a depression, and an approaching western disturbance, is influencing weather conditions across Madhya Pradesh.

The combined effect of these systems is expected to bring widespread rainfall between July 27 and July 30, with isolated areas likely to receive heavy to very heavy showers.

State Still Faces Rainfall Deficit

Despite the renewed rainfall activity, Madhya Pradesh continues to record below-normal monsoon rainfall this season.

According to IMD data, the state has received an average of 334.9 mm (13.2 inches) of rainfall so far, against the normal 395.2 mm (15.5 inches), leaving a 15 per cent seasonal deficit.

The eastern region has recorded an 18 per cent shortfall, while western Madhya Pradesh remains 13 per cent below normal.

Rainfall remains below average in 41 districts, including Shahdol, Rewa, Satna, Sidhi, Singrauli, Jabalpur, Balaghat, Dindori, Chhindwara, Sagar, Vidisha, Ujjain, Gwalior and Narmadapuram.

In contrast, 14 districts, including Bhopal, Indore, Sehore, Rajgarh, Harda, Dewas, Burhanpur and Neemuch, have recorded above-normal rainfall.

Itarsi Residents Perform Ritual for Rain

With rainfall remaining inadequate in parts of Narmadapuram district, residents of Itarsi performed a traditional religious ritual seeking timely monsoon showers.

At the ancient Tilak Sindoor Temple, devotees conducted a special Rudrabhishek and immersed the Shivling in water, believing the ritual invokes Lord Indra's blessings and brings rainfall.

Large numbers of devotees participated in the prayers, seeking good rainfall, prosperity for farmers and a successful agricultural season.

Heavy Rain Likely Over Next Four Days

The weather department has advised residents in rain-prone districts to remain alert for thunderstorms, lightning, waterlogging and possible flash flooding in low-lying areas.

Authorities have also urged people to avoid open fields during thunderstorms and follow weather advisories issued by local administrations.