Heavy pre-monsoon showers in Gwalior and Morena bring respite as the Met issues loo alerts for six districts

A sudden shift in weather brought intermittent rain to Gwalior from around 6am on Friday and heavy downpours to parts of Morena, offering a brief break from the searing pre-monsoon heat as the India Meteorological Department (IMD) issued a mix of heatwave and storm alerts across Madhya Pradesh.

Rain arrives early
Residents in Gwalior reported spells of rain beginning at about 6am, with showers continuing on and off through the morning, local officials said. In Morena, the rain came down more intensely in the early hours, leaving wet roads and a cooler feel in the neighbourhoods close to the Chambal plains.

Alerts across the state
The IMD has put six districts — Gwalior, Morena, Shyopur, Niwari, Tikamgarh and Chhatarpur — on an orange alert for severe loo (hot wind) conditions. A wider set of 27 districts, including Bhopal, Jabalpur, Vidisha and Sagar, carry a yellow heatwave alert with maximum temperatures expected to remain above 43°C in many places.

At the same time, forecasters warned of thunderstorms, gusty winds and isolated hail over pockets of the state between May 29 and June 1. The department’s four-day forecast said Friday would see a mix of heat, rain and possible hail, while widespread rain and thunderstorm activity is likely from May 30 onwards, temporarily replacing heatwave conditions in most divisions.

Local damage and earlier storms
The weather change follows violent storms that hit Rewa and adjoining areas on Thursday night. Local officials and media reports said strong gusts uprooted trees and electricity poles, tore off tin roofs and damaged signboards in market areas. Authorities in affected towns carried out preliminary assessments and restoration work on power lines and municipal clearing of fallen debris.

High temperatures earlier in May
The state has been under intense heat since the start of nautapa (the peak summer period). Since May 25 several towns recorded extreme highs: Khajuraho and Naugaon topped the list with temperatures touching and exceeding 46°C on some days. On Thursday, 10 stations recorded temperatures of 45°C or above; Khajuraho recorded a maximum of 46.5°C, while Rajgarh, Datia, Damoh-Malajkhand and Tikamgarh also reported readings above 45°C.

Gwalior’s long-term extremes
Gwalior, one of the hotter urban centres in the state, has seen temperatures cross 47°C in the past, with a record high of 48.3°C on May 30, 1947. This year the city registered a high of 44.7°C earlier in May before the recent showers offered temporary relief.

Health advisory issued
IMD meteorologist H.S. Pandey advised people to avoid outdoor activities between noon and 3pm when heat is most intense, and to stay hydrated. “If travel is unavoidable, carry water, wear light cotton clothes and avoid strenuous work in the afternoon,” he said. Authorities have urged special care for children, the elderly and outdoor workers. Hospitals and health departments in several districts have been asked to be alert for heatstroke cases.

Pets and livestock risk
Local veterinarians warned that pets and livestock are also at increased risk during nautapa. With many towns recording temperatures above 45°C earlier this week, vets recommended limiting pet walks to early morning and late evening, providing shade, and ensuring constant access to drinking water for farm animals.

Outlook and next steps
The IMD forecast indicates a continuing active spell from May 30 to June 1, with a likelihood of thunderstorms and isolated hail in parts of the state and no statewide heatwave alerts during those three days. However, pockets in Indore and Narmadapuram divisions may still see lingering high temperatures. District administrations have been asked to keep relief measures ready, monitor vulnerable populations and coordinate with power and municipal departments to respond to storm-related damage.

For residents, the immediate message is simple: expect changing conditions — from intense heat to sudden storms — over the coming 72 hours and plan outdoor activities accordingly.

Temperatures soar across the state as pre-monsoon activity brings limited relief in initial days of the traditional nine-day hot spell.

Severe heatwave conditions continued to grip large parts of Madhya Pradesh on Wednesday as Nautapa entered its third day, with 16 cities recording maximum temperatures above 44°C. Khajuraho in Chhatarpur district emerged as the hottest place in the state, recording 46.4°C on Tuesday.

According to the India Meteorological Department (IMD) Bhopal centre, the intense heat is typical for Nautapa, the nine-day period considered the peak of summer heat in central India. However, the first two days of this spell saw some respite in the form of thunderstorms and light to moderate rainfall in several areas.

Red Alert in Multiple Districts

The IMD has issued a red alert for heatwave in Niwari, Tikamgarh, Chhatarpur, Panna, Satna, and Rewa districts on Wednesday. Tikamgarh is also likely to experience warm nights with minimum temperatures remaining elevated. Orange alerts for severe heatwave have been sounded for Gwalior and Jabalpur, while Bhopal may also witness heatwave conditions.

Local residents in Tikamgarh reported significant discomfort. On Tuesday, the district recorded 45°C, while on Monday it touched 45.3°C. The minimum temperature has hovered between 30-31°C, offering little relief even after sunset. “People are avoiding stepping out during peak afternoon hours,” said a local shopkeeper.

Ground Reality Amid Scorching Heat

In Bhopal, the impact of the rising mercury was visible on the streets. Major roads, including Link Road No. 1, wore a deserted look during afternoon hours. Even the usually shaded “Thandi Sadak” near Shaurya Smarak saw reduced footfall and vehicle movement as people preferred to stay indoors.

Demand for traditional summer coolers such as shikanji, lemon water, and soda shot up significantly in the capital city, with vendors reporting brisk business since morning.

Temperature Snapshot Across MP

On Tuesday, several places crossed the 44°C mark:

- Khajuraho: 46.4°C

- Naugaon: 45.6°C

- Datia: 45.2°C

- Damoh, Satna, Tikamgarh: 45°C

- Rewa: 44.8°C

- Gwalior: 44.1°C

- Bhopal: 43.2°C

- Jabalpur: 43.9°C

Among major cities, Gwalior remained the hottest, followed by Jabalpur and Bhopal. Indore and Ujjain recorded relatively lower temperatures at 41.2°C and 42°C respectively.

Rain Alert Brings Hope

After two days of scattered thunderstorms, the IMD has forecast good news for the coming days. From May 28, most parts of the state are likely to receive rainfall for three consecutive days. This pre-monsoon activity is expected to bring some relief from the scorching heat.

The southwest monsoon is likely to enter Madhya Pradesh between June 10 and 16, according to current estimates.

Health Concerns Rise

With temperatures touching 40-45°C during Nautapa, doctors are advising caution against heat-related illnesses. Dehydration, heat stroke, dizziness, and fatigue are common concerns. Residents have been urged to carry water bottles, wear light cotton clothes, avoid direct sun exposure between 12 noon and 4 pm, and consume hydrating fluids.

The combination of extreme day temperatures and high night temperatures is making recovery difficult for people, especially outdoor workers, elderly citizens, and children.

As the state waits for the promised rainfall in the next few days, the coming week will be crucial in determining whether the intense heat eases or continues to test public endurance across Madhya Pradesh.

Rain and Hail Disrupt North India as Heatwave Persists in Parts of Gujarat and Madhya Pradesh

A sudden spell of rain, hailstorms, and thunderstorms brought relief from the scorching heat in several parts of North and Central India on Thursday, even as Gujarat’s Rajkot emerged as the hottest place in the country with a maximum temperature of 42.9 degrees Celsius.

The contrasting weather patterns highlighted the unpredictable nature of the pre-monsoon season, with heavy downpours reported in Uttar Pradesh and Bihar, while hail lashed parts of Rajasthan and Himachal Pradesh.

Rain batters eastern UP districts

Heavy rain lashed several districts of Uttar Pradesh on Thursday, including Banda, Bijnor, Shahjahanpur, Kanpur Dehat, and Mahoba. In Bijnor, a CCTV tower installed along a road collapsed due to strong winds and rain, leading to a temporary power outage in the area. Local authorities rushed to the spot to restore normalcy.

In Barabanki, slippery road conditions triggered a major accident involving two double-decker buses, a DCM truck, and several other vehicles. One person from Basti district died on the spot, police said. Traffic movement was affected on the highway for several hours following the incident.

Bihar districts receive heavy showers

Bihar also witnessed intense rainfall in at least five districts, including Jamui. Reports of hailstorms accompanied the rain in some areas, causing damage to standing crops and orchards. Farmers expressed concern over possible losses even as the showers brought down temperatures temporarily.

Hailstorms hit Rajasthan

Weather turned dramatic in Rajasthan during the afternoon hours, with rain and hail reported in Alwar, Tonk, and Kotputli-Behror districts. Hailstones of considerable size were seen in several pockets, startling residents. The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has forecast a possible rise of 2 to 3 degrees Celsius in maximum temperatures across the state in the coming days.

Thunderstorms grip Madhya Pradesh

In Madhya Pradesh, rain accompanied by thunderstorms and strong winds continued for the seventh consecutive day. Gwalior, Morena, Bhind, Datia, Niwari, and Tikamgarh received fresh spells on Thursday. However, heatwave conditions are expected to persist in as many as 44 districts, including the major cities of Bhopal, Indore, Ujjain, and Jabalpur.

Snowfall alert in Himachal

Himachal Pradesh recorded rainfall in several places including Shimla, Jubbarhatti, Sundernagar, and Kangra. Lightning strikes were also reported. Sarahan in Sirmaur district received the highest 24-hour rainfall of 20 mm. The meteorological department has issued a yellow alert for rain and snowfall in upper reaches of Kinnaur and Mandi districts from May 11 to 13.

Fresh snowfall was recorded in Kedarnath on Thursday, while Pithoragarh received 18 mm of rain and Song in Bageshwar recorded 12 mm.

Uttarakhand braces for more rain

Rain and snowfall are likely to continue in higher reaches of Uttarakhand, particularly in Uttarkashi, Rudraprayag, Chamoli, Bageshwar, and Pithoragarh districts in the coming days.

Two-day weather outlook

The IMD has forecast rain with strong winds (30-50 kmph) in Jammu & Kashmir, Himachal Pradesh, and Uttarakhand on May 9. Thunderstorms and rain are likely in Punjab, Haryana, Delhi, Uttar Pradesh, and Rajasthan. Bihar, Jharkhand, Odisha, and West Bengal may also witness rain with lightning risk.

On May 10, light rain and thunder are expected in parts of Uttarakhand, while isolated thunderstorms are likely in areas around Pathankot, Rupnagar, and Mohali in Punjab. Southern and central Bihar may again see thunderstorms with rain.

Mixed impact on daily life

While the rain brought much-needed respite from the intense heat in many regions, it also caused temporary disruptions to road and power infrastructure. Farmers in rain-hit areas remain cautiously optimistic, hoping the precipitation does not damage rabi crops at the harvesting stage. Officials have urged people to avoid venturing out during thunderstorms and lightning.

The sharp variation in weather across North and Central India underscores the challenges posed by changing climate patterns during the transition to the monsoon season.

Chhattisgarh Rain Alert Amid Heatwave Peak

IMD warns of thunderstorms, lightning, and gusty winds up to 60 kmph across Chhattisgarh for next 5 days, offering relief from scorching temperatures that hit 43.5°C in Rajnandgaon.

Scorching Heat Persists

Heatwave thermometer silhouette 

Rajnandgaon emerged as the hottest spot in Chhattisgarh on Saturday, with the mercury climbing to 43.5 degrees Celsius amid a prolonged heatwave. Local reports indicate little change in temperatures over the past 24 hours in most areas, though northern districts saw a 2-4 degree rise. Pendra Road recorded the lowest minimum at 22.6 degrees Celsius, providing scant nighttime relief.[query context]

In Raipur, the capital, maximum temperatures hovered around 42 degrees, with partly cloudy skies dominating.

This image captures the intensity of the heatwave in Rajnandgaon, where thermometers pushed past 43°C, forcing residents indoors during peak afternoon hours.

Thunderstorm Alert Issued

The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has forecasted thunderstorms, lightning, and light to moderate rain over Chhattisgarh for the next five days. Winds could gust up to 50-60 kmph, with thundersqualls possible on May 3 and 4, particularly in central and northern districts.

Saturday saw sudden downpours in Kondagaon during the afternoon, while Bilaspur and Durg experienced fierce gusts.[query context] Initial reports from IMD's Raipur centre point to isolated heavy spells, urging caution in open areas.

Trough Lines Stir Change

Two active trough lines are driving the weather shift, according to IMD officials.[query context] One runs east-west from northeast Madhya Pradesh through Chhattisgarh, Jharkhand, West Bengal, Bangladesh, and south Assam. The second stretches north-south from west Rajasthan to interior Tamil Nadu, keeping conditions unstable.[query context]

These systems are expected to bring moisture-laden winds, leading to a 2-3 degree drop in maximum temperatures after the next 24 hours.

Raipur Braces for Clouds

In the capital, Sunday—May 3—looks set for partly cloudy skies with chances of thunder and light rain. Daytime highs may touch 42 degrees, with lows around 27 degrees Celsius.[query context] Residents have already felt scattered pre-monsoon activity, a brief respite from the dry scorch.

Local Coping Measures

In Dhamtari's Risai Para, locals led by residents Pawan Likhi and Raju Bhai installed a mist-spraying pipeline along the main road to combat the heat.[query context] Cool sprays now offer passing pedestrians relief from the blazing sun, sparking demands for similar setups at busy junctions citywide.

Such community-driven coolers, like this mist system at a busy stop, highlight grassroots efforts amid the heatwave in Chhattisgarh towns.

IMD Safety Guidelines

Officials advise avoiding open fields during storms and lightning, staying clear of trees and electric poles.[query context] Farmers should secure crops and equipment indoors. Hydration remains key as heat lingers before the anticipated cooldown.

With the rain alert in place, Chhattisgarh rain alert could ease heatwave woes, but vigilance is needed for sudden weather swings.

Chhattisgarh Rain Alert: IMD Warns of Thunderstorms, High Winds for Five Days

The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued a five-day alert for thunderstorms accompanied by lightning and gusty winds across Chhattisgarh. Officials said wind speeds could reach 40 to 50 km per hour, with scattered light to moderate rain expected in several districts from Friday onwards.

Five-Day Weather Alert

The weather office has forecast thunderstorm activity over most parts of central and northern Chhattisgarh for the next 120 hours. Southern districts may see isolated showers during the first three days. The alert remains in effect until Wednesday next week, according to a bulletin issued from the IMD’s Raipur centre.

High Winds Expected

Wind speeds are likely to touch 50 km per hour during peak thunderstorm activity. Officials have cautioned residents against venturing out during squalls. Loose structures, hoardings, and thatched roofs could face damage. Power lines may also be affected in rural pockets.

Temperature to Drop

Day temperatures are expected to drop by 1 to 3 degrees Celsius after an initial rise over the next 48 hours. “Central and north Chhattisgarh will see a marginal increase in maximum temperatures first, followed by a gradual fall,” an IMD scientist explained. Southern parts, however, will witness no major change in mercury levels for the next three days.

Past 24 Hours Data

In the last 24 hours, Pendraroad recorded 10 mm of very light rainfall. Rajnandgaon remained the hottest location in the state with a maximum temperature of 39.5 degrees Celsius. Durg logged the lowest minimum at 20.4 degrees. No major weather-related damage has been reported so far.

Raipur’s Cloudy Outlook

The state capital is likely to remain partly cloudy through the weekend. The maximum temperature in Raipur will hover around 39 degrees Celsius, while the minimum could settle near 25 degrees. Short spells of rain or thundershowers are possible in the evening hours, said local meteorological sources.

Advice for Residents

The state disaster management authority has advised farmers to postpone harvesting and pesticide application until conditions improve. People have been urged to stay indoors during lightning and avoid shelter under trees. District control rooms have been placed on standby.

What Lies Ahead

The weather system is being driven by an upper air cyclonic circulation over central India. Officials said the intensity of rain may reduce after five days, but isolated thundershowers could continue in northern districts. A fresh western disturbance may influence the region later next week, though no immediate alert has been issued.

Chhattisgarh Weather Alert: Storms, Hail, Rain for 2 Days

Chhattisgarh weather alert warns of thunderstorms, strong winds up to 60 km/h, and possible hailstorm activity across the state for two days, even as temperatures remain above seasonal norms.

Storm Warning in Force

A fresh weather alert is in effect across Chhattisgarh as the India Meteorological Department warns of thunderstorms, hailstorm activity, and gusty winds through April 2. The Chhattisgarh weather alert, triggered by an active meteorological system originating in Uttar Pradesh, puts the state on notice for two consecutive days of rough weather — even as parts of the region continue to record above-normal temperatures.

What Is Driving This

According to officials at the regional meteorological centre, a trough line — a zone of atmospheric low pressure — is currently active, stretching from eastern Uttar Pradesh all the way down to southern Tamil Nadu. This system passes through Madhya Pradesh, Vidarbha, Marathwada, and interior Karnataka before influencing conditions further south. It is this trough that is pulling moisture into central India and setting off storm conditions across Chhattisgarh.

Sources indicated that winds of 50 to 60 kilometres per hour, lightning strikes, and localised hail are all expected as this system interacts with the prevailing warm, humid air mass over the state.

Rain Already Recorded

The weather disruption is already visible on the ground. As per reports, over the past 24 hours, Tokpal in Bastar division received 20 mm of rainfall, while Bhanpuri, Jagdalpur, and Nangur each logged 10 mm. Most other parts of the state remained dry, though cloud cover has been building steadily since Tuesday evening.

Temperatures Above Normal

Despite the incoming weather activity, daytime temperatures across Chhattisgarh are running 2 to 3 degrees Celsius above the seasonal average. Rajnandgaon recorded the highest maximum in the state at 38.5 degrees Celsius, while Ambikapur logged the lowest minimum at 19.8 degrees Celsius — a wide thermal spread that reflects the unsettled nature of the current weather pattern.

Raipur Forecast Today

In the state capital, skies will remain partly cloudy through the day with a possibility of thunder and light rain by evening. The maximum temperature is expected around 38 degrees Celsius and the minimum at approximately 26 degrees Celsius, according to officials. Residents have been advised to avoid open areas and tall trees if storms develop through the afternoon hours.

Relief Coming, But Brief

The meteorological department noted that temperatures are likely to fall by 2 to 4 degrees Celsius over the next three days as the storm system moves through the region. After that, conditions are expected to stabilise and heat is likely to build again. The pattern — brief storm relief followed by a return to high temperatures — is consistent with Chhattisgarh's typical pre-monsoon April behaviour, sources indicated.

What Comes Next

The Chhattisgarh weather alert is likely to remain active at least until April 2, with meteorologists monitoring the trough's movement closely. If the system intensifies, additional districts could be brought under orange or red alert. Farmers in rain-fed agricultural zones have been informally advised to secure standing crops ahead of any hailstorm activity. State disaster management authorities are on standby to respond to storm-related incidents as and when they arise.