The southwest monsoon has become fully active across Chhattisgarh after remaining sluggish for several days, with good to heavy rainfall expected in most parts of the state over the next seven days.

The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has forecast widespread rain accompanied by thunderstorms and lightning in the coming week. Dense cloud clusters are currently visible over central and northern parts of the state, including Raipur, Bilaspur, and Surguja regions.

In the last 24 hours, moderate to heavy rain occurred in parts of Surguja and Bastar divisions, while light showers were recorded elsewhere. The recent activity has brought some relief from the heat, though the overall June rainfall remains significantly below normal.

According to data, the state should have received around 188 mm (7.4 inches) of rain by June 30, but only 66.2 mm (2.5 inches) has been recorded so far — a massive 65 per cent deficit. However, with the monsoon now covering the entire state, officials hope the shortfall will be made up in the coming weeks.

Tragedies Amid Rain

The monsoon activity has also claimed lives. In Surguja’s Dhaurpur police station area, lightning struck a tree under which three children and a youth were standing, killing two children and the youth while injuring another child. In Bilaspur, strong winds and rain caused a large tree to fall near the collector’s bungalow, damaging a car, though the occupants escaped unhurt.

The weather department has advised people to avoid open areas during thunderstorms and take necessary precautions.

As the monsoon gains momentum, farmers are hoping for consistent rainfall to support kharif sowing. The coming week will be crucial for rainfall distribution across the state.

The southwest monsoon has accelerated its advance, reaching central and southern districts. Officials expect the remaining areas to be covered within 24 hours.

The southwest monsoon has picked up pace across Chhattisgarh, covering the central and southern parts of the state. Officials said the remaining northern and north-western districts are likely to receive monsoon showers within the next 24 hours.

The India Meteorological Department has issued a warning for thunderstorms and lightning strikes across several parts of the state for the next two days.

On Wednesday, Dantewada and Raigarh districts recorded heavy rainfall. But despite the showers, Bilaspur remained the hottest city in the state at 39 degrees Celsius, while Rajnandgaon recorded the lowest minimum temperature at 22 degrees.

Here's the catch — the monsoon arrived nearly a week late this year, and the deficit tells the story. Between June 1 and now, Chhattisgarh should have received 127.8 mm of rainfall. The actual figure? Just 44.8 mm. That's a shortfall of nearly 65 per cent.

18 Districts Covered So Far

Monsoon has officially arrived in these districts:

Raipur, Durg, Dhamtari, Gariaband, Mahasamund, Balodabazar, Bemetara, Kabirdham, Rajnandgaon, Mohla-Manpur-Ambagarh Chowki, Khairagarh-Chhuikhadan-Gandai, Kanker, Kondagaon, Narayanpur, Bastar, Dantewada, Sukma, Bijapur.

These Districts Are Still Waiting

Surguja, Surajpur, Balrampur, Korea, Manendragarh-Chirmiri-Bharatpur, Jashpur, Korba, Gaurela-Pendra-Marwahi, Bilaspur, Mungeli, Janjgir-Champa, Sakti, Sarangarh-Bilaigarh, Raigarh.

Pre-monsoon showers are occurring in these areas, but the IMD has not officially declared the monsoon's arrival there yet.

Bastar Best Placed, But Still Behind

The Bastar division, which traditionally receives the first monsoon showers, has fared relatively better than other regions. But "better" is a relative term:

- Bastar district: 74.8 mm rainfall against a normal of 142.7 mm — a 48% deficit

- Dantewada: 49.9 mm against 107.7 mm normal — down by 54%

- Sukma: 60.3 mm recorded, which is 54% below normal

Kondagaon and Bijapur reported 51.9 mm and 28 mm respectively.

Central Chhattisgarh Worst Hit

The situation in central districts is far more concerning:

- Raipur: 25.3 mm against a normal of 90.1 mm — 72% deficit

- Dhamtari: 34.2 mm against 112.6 mm

- Durg: 34.2 mm against 113.9 mm

- Mahasamund: 20.7 mm against 105.4 mm

- Balodabazar: Just 14 mm against 81.3 mm

Several Districts Face 80%+ Deficit

- Rajnandgaon: 8.3 mm against 100.3 mm — a staggering 92% deficit (worst affected)

- Mohla-Manpur-Chowki: 95% deficit

- Balodabazar and Sarangarh-Bilaigarh: 83% below normal

- Sakti: 83% deficit

The Next 10 Days Could Make or Break the Season

These numbers aren't just statistics. The delayed and weak monsoon has meant that most districts haven't received enough soil moisture for sowing. Farmers across the state are watching the skies, waiting for the rains to pick up.

Agriculture experts say the next 10 days will be critical. If widespread, good rainfall doesn't arrive in the last week of June, the sowing window could shrink significantly, impacting crop yields later in the season.

The weather department has forecast thunderstorms and lightning across the state for the next five days. If heavy rain covers the entire state in these remaining days of June, the deficit could reduce rapidly.

For Raipur, the IMD has forecast cloudy skies with thunderstorms and rain on June 24. The maximum temperature is expected to hover around 35 degrees, with the minimum settling at about 25 degrees.

Monsoon remains elusive; Jabalpur, Mandla, Damoh, Umaria under heatwave warning; Bhopal among 30 districts set for rain with gusty winds

The wait for monsoon in Madhya Pradesh continues to stretch, with the state recording 52 per cent less rainfall than normal between June 1 and June 22. According to the India Meteorological Department (IMD), the state was expected to receive an average of 70.9 mm of rainfall during this period, but only 34.3 mm has been recorded so far.

Forty-eight districts, including Indore, Ujjain and Gwalior, have received below-normal rainfall. Eastern Madhya Pradesh — comprising Jabalpur, Rewa, Sagar and Shahdol divisions — has reported a deficit of 71 per cent, while the western region, including Bhopal, Indore, Ujjain, Narmadapuram and Gwalior-Chambal, has recorded 33 per cent less rainfall.

Heatwave Alert in 4 Districts

The IMD has issued a heatwave warning for Tuesday (June 23) in Jabalpur, Mandla, Damoh and Umaria. Temperatures in these districts are likely to remain between 40°C and 42°C.

Datia recorded the highest temperature in the state on Monday at 42.2°C. Gwalior followed at 40.2°C, while Jabalpur settled at 36°C, Bhopal at 35.2°C, Ujjain at 35°C and Indore at 34.7°C. Pachmarhi remained the coolest at 31.6°C.

Rain and Thunderstorm Alert in 30 Districts

The weather department has forecast thunderstorms with gusty winds reaching speeds of 40 to 60 kmph in approximately 30 districts on Tuesday.

Districts likely to receive rain include Bhopal, Indore, Dhar, Jhabua, Barwani, Khargone, Khandwa, Burhanpur, Dewas, Sehore, Harda, Narmadapuram, Raisen, Vidisha, Sagar, Narsinghpur, Chhindwara, Seoni, Balaghat, Dindori, Anuppur, Gwalior, Morena, Bhind, Datia, Sheopur, Betul, Pandhurna, Alirajpur and Shahdol.

Areas including Neemuch, Mandsaur, Ratlam, Ujjain, Shajapur, Guna, Shivpuri, Tikamgarh, Chhatarpur, Panna, Rewa and Singrauli are expected to remain under hot weather conditions.

Kharif Sowing Affected

The rainfall deficit has slowed the sowing of Kharif crops, particularly soybean. Agricultural scientists say soil becomes suitable for sowing only after receiving approximately 4 inches of rainfall. According to current data, Bhopal is the only district to have crossed that mark, having recorded 4.6 inches of rainfall — 53 per cent above normal.

Monsoon Entry Expected in 2-3 Days

The normal date for monsoon arrival in Madhya Pradesh is June 15, but this year it has been delayed by about eight days. Weather officials expect the monsoon to enter the state within the next two to three days.

The IMD has stated that conditions are favourable for the monsoon to advance further in the next 48 hours, and there is a possibility that it may enter Madhya Pradesh before June 27-28.

Pre-monsoon activity continued across the state on Monday, with Dhar receiving around 2 inches of rainfall and Bhopal recording three-quarters of an inch. Rain and thunderstorms were also reported in Indore, Khandwa, Raisen, Rajgarh, Ujjain, Chhindwara, Jabalpur, Sagar, Satna and Barwani.

Why the Deficit?

So far, June has largely witnessed pre-monsoon weather conditions. The delayed arrival has significantly impacted rainfall figures. An early monsoon onset typically brings a heavy spell of rain, but this year the system has remained sluggish.

The monsoon's northern limit currently passes through Alibag, Pune, Nizamabad, Dantewada, Balangir, Sundargarh, Chatra, Gaya and Muzaffarpur. Met officials said Madhya Pradesh may have to wait a little longer, as the timing of the monsoon's entry will largely depend on wind patterns after the system advances deeper into Maharashtra and Chhattisgarh.

The southwest monsoon has slowed down just as it reached Chhattisgarh, with its pace temporarily on hold across the state. While the much-awaited full arrival is still pending, the India Meteorological Department has forecast thunderstorm, lightning, gusty winds and light to moderate rainfall in several parts of the state over the next five days.

In the past 24 hours, northern Chhattisgarh witnessed spells of thunder and lightning accompanied by strong winds. Light to moderate rain occurred in scattered areas. The maximum temperature touched 41.2 degrees Celsius in Durg, making it the hottest place in the state, while Ambikapur recorded the lowest minimum temperature at 22.9 degrees Celsius.

Meteorologists said the monsoon has currently stalled near the state’s border, leading to a temporary break in its progress. However, conditions remain favourable for renewed activity. Several districts may experience gusty winds blowing at 40 to 50 km per hour, raising the risk of dust storms and thunderstorms in the coming days.

Raipur, the state capital, is likely to stay under cloudy skies on Tuesday. The weather department has issued an alert for thunderstorm, rain or dusty winds in the city. Day temperature is expected to hover around 39 degrees Celsius while the night temperature may settle near 27 degrees Celsius.

The current weather pattern has brought some relief from the intense heat in certain pockets, though temperatures are still high in many places. Just four days ago in Korba, heavy showers turned streets into temporary streams, with children seen floating paper boats — images that captured the joy of the first good spell of rain.

Officials are closely monitoring the situation as the state prepares for the full onset of the monsoon. Farmers, especially those yet to complete sowing, are hoping for timely and widespread rainfall in the coming week. At the same time, authorities have asked people to remain cautious of lightning and strong winds, which can damage standing crops, weak structures and overhead power lines.

In the last few years, Chhattisgarh has seen erratic monsoon behaviour, sometimes leading to floods in low-lying areas and drought-like conditions in others. This year too, the delayed and paused progress of the monsoon has become a topic of discussion among locals and agricultural experts.

The Met department has advised that while no extremely heavy rainfall is predicted immediately, the possibility of thundershowers with squally winds cannot be ruled out. People living in vulnerable areas have been asked to stay alert, particularly during late afternoon and evening hours when such weather activity usually peaks.

As of now, no major disruption has been reported due to the current weather, but the next five days will be crucial for the state’s agriculture-dependent regions. Further updates on the monsoon’s movement are expected in the coming hours.

The weather department said it is keeping a constant watch on developing systems. Residents have been urged not to take shelter under trees during thunderstorms and to avoid open areas when lightning is reported.

For now, Chhattisgarh waits for the monsoon to pick up pace again after this temporary lull.

Monsoon expected to enter via Bastar within days

The weather across Chhattisgarh has taken a decisive turn. The meteorological department has issued an alert for the next five days, warning of thunderstorms, lightning, and gusty winds reaching speeds of 40 to 50 kilometres per hour in several parts of the state.

Officials said Sunday that southwest monsoon is likely to enter through the Bastar division within the next 96 to 120 hours. South Chhattisgarh typically receives monsoon earlier than the northern districts, and this year appears to be following the same pattern.

Orange and yellow alerts issued

The weather department has sounded an orange and yellow alert for Sunday. Winds picking up at high speed accompanied by lightning remain the primary concern. "People in affected areas should stay indoors during peak afternoon and evening hours," an official advisory noted.

Locals in Bilaspur witnessed sudden showers on Sunday afternoon. The sky turned overcast within minutes. Similar conditions are expected to repeat over the coming week.

Mungeli records highest rainfall

The past 24 hours have seen scattered activity across south and central Chhattisgarh. Mungeli recorded the state's highest rainfall at 50 millimetres. Kabirdham followed with 10 millimetres.

Northern districts experienced a drop in maximum temperatures by 1 to 2 degrees Celsius due to the rain and cloud cover. However, central regions including Raipur and Durg saw temperatures rise by 1 to 2 degrees. The variation suggests a weather system that remains unstable and dynamic.

Raipur likely to see dust storm

Raipur woke up to cloudy skies on Sunday morning. The Met department predicts thunder showers accompanied by a dust storm later in the day. Maximum temperature in the capital is expected to hover around 40 degrees Celsius, while the minimum may settle near 28 degrees.

Commuters in the city have been advised to exercise caution. Dust storms in this region often reduce visibility suddenly, and gusty winds can bring down hoardings or tree branches.

What to expect in coming days

Over the next five days, pre-monsoon activity is likely to intensify. Districts in Bastar including Jagdalpur, Sukma, and Dantewada may see the first monsoon showers by Thursday or Friday if current wind patterns hold.

For the rest of the state, the weather department has predicted continued thunderstorm activity with wind speeds touching 50 kmph at isolated places. Farmers have been advised to postpone any open-field operations during peak thunderstorm hours.

The change in weather has brought some relief from the summer heat. But officials also warn that lightning strikes remain a genuine risk. At least three districts have reported lightning-related incidents over the past week, though no fresh casualties have been confirmed in the last 24 hours.

Strong pre-monsoon activity has gripped Madhya Pradesh, bringing gusty winds exceeding 70 kmph, heavy showers, and scattered hail in several districts. With the southwest monsoon running 3-4 days behind schedule, the India Meteorological Department (IMD) indicates it could enter the state around June 18.

Saturday saw sudden weather shifts across the state. In Bhopal and surrounding areas like Narsinghpur, Sehore, Narmadapuram, Pachmarhi, and Pipariya, thunderstorms accompanied by intense rain disrupted normal life. The impact was particularly severe in Itarsi, where a tree fell on an ambulance and a power department worker narrowly escaped injury. Fallen trees blocked roads, electricity lines snapped, and a fair's main gate was uprooted.

Gusty Winds and Rain Alert

IMD Bhopal has reported wind speeds touching or crossing 70 kmph in multiple places on Saturday. An orange alert for severe thunderstorms remains in place for Shivpuri and Ashoknagar on Sunday. Many other districts, including Gwalior, Guna, Datia, Morena, Bhind, Sheopur, Neemuch, Mandsaur, Agar-Malwa, Rajgarh, Vidisha, Sagar, Chhindwara, Pandhurna, Seoni, Balaghat, Mandla, Dindori, Anuppur, Jabalpur, Katni, Damoh, Panna, Chhatarpur, Tikamgarh, and Niwari, are expected to receive rainfall.

A trough line's activity is driving these conditions. The next four days are likely to see continued pre-monsoon spells of thunder, rain, and gusty winds in various parts.

Temperature Dip Provides Relief

Daytime temperatures dropped noticeably in several cities. Bhopal recorded 39.1°C, Indore 38.1°C, while Gwalior saw the lowest among major centres at 34.6°C. Rajgarh touched the highest at 41°C. Shivpuri recorded the state's lowest at 33°C. This partial relief from the heat comes as a welcome change for residents amid the pre-monsoon disturbances.

Damage in Itarsi and Other Areas

In Itarsi, the combination of strong winds and rain caused significant local disruption. Emergency services had to respond quickly as trees blocked pathways and power supply was affected. Similar incidents of fallen trees were reported from other pockets, highlighting the vulnerability of infrastructure during these sudden squalls.

Pachmarhi received moderate rain lasting about half an hour on Saturday, while Sagar and Dindori also witnessed showers. Guna experienced strong winds.

Historical Context of June Weather

Madhya Pradesh often sees a mix of heat and pre-monsoon rain in June. In Bhopal, out of the last 14 years, seven recorded rain during the Nautapa period, with two instances of light drizzles. Past years like 2018 and 2019 were notably hotter, with average temperatures crossing 43°C. June trends in major cities show variability: Indore has seen up to 4-5 inches of rain in some years, while Gwalior has recorded extreme highs near 48°C in the past. Jabalpur, often among the first to receive monsoon, has a history of good June showers.

Monsoon Outlook and Public Impact

Officials indicate the monsoon may advance into Madhya Pradesh between June 15 and 18, depending on further progress over neighbouring regions. Pre-monsoon activity is expected to persist until then. Farmers and residents are closely watching these developments as the state prepares for the sowing season.

The current spells have brought much-needed moisture but also risks of localised damage, power outages, and traffic disruptions. Authorities have advised caution during thunderstorms, especially in vulnerable districts.

As the trough remains active, the coming days will likely feature a continuation of thundery weather interspersed with spells of rain. Meteorologists will monitor conditions for the formal monsoon onset announcement in the state.

Pre-Monsoon Showers Bring Mixed Relief

The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued a hail alert for six districts in Madhya Pradesh even as the southwest monsoon is likely to make its entry into the state three to four days later than usual. Officials expect the monsoon to reach southern districts around June 17-18, with full coverage of the state possible in the next 10-15 days if conditions remain favourable.

Hail Threat in Chambal and Bundelkhand

According to meteorologists, scattered hail may occur on Friday in Morena, Bhind, Datia, Niwari, Tikamgarh, and Chhatarpur districts. This comes after Thursday’s rain and thunderstorm activity across several parts of the state. In Morena, residents witnessed heavy showers accompanied by strong winds on Thursday, offering some temporary respite from the lingering heat.

Thunderstorms Likely Across Multiple Regions

Several districts, including Bhopal, Raisen, Sehore, Rajgarh, Vidisha, Gwalior, Jabalpur, and others, are expected to experience thunderstorms with winds gusting between 40 and 60 kmph. The activity is linked to an active trough line over eastern Madhya Pradesh and a cyclonic circulation system influencing the weather pattern.

Local authorities have advised people to stay alert, especially in vulnerable areas. Farmers in the affected districts have been asked to take precautionary measures to protect standing crops from possible hail and strong winds.

Heat Continues in Western Madhya Pradesh

While eastern and northern parts see pre-monsoon activity, western districts such as Indore, Ujjain, Ratlam, Jhabua, Alirajpur, Dhar, Barwani, and Khargone are likely to continue facing hot and dry conditions without any immediate thunderstorm alert.

Thursday’s Rainfall and Temperature Readings

On Thursday, Gwalior recorded about half an inch of rainfall. Light to moderate showers were also reported in Mandla, Seoni, Datia, and some other areas. Daytime temperatures, however, remained high in many places. Gwalior recorded the highest maximum among major cities at 42°C, followed by Jabalpur at 41.3°C. Khajuraho and Nougong were the hottest spots in the state at 43°C.

Monsoon Progress and Outlook

After a day’s break, the monsoon advanced into parts of Karnataka, Telangana, and Andhra Pradesh on June 11. Weather experts say favourable conditions could help it progress quickly towards Madhya Pradesh. A senior IMD scientist, Arun Sharma, noted that pre-monsoon activities would continue until the monsoon sets in properly.

Historical Context in Major Cities

Madhya Pradesh’s major cities have seen varied June weather patterns over the years. Bhopal has recorded rain during the Nautapa period multiple times in the last 14 years. In Gwalior, temperatures have crossed 47°C in the past, while Jabalpur often receives good rainfall once the monsoon arrives. Indore and Ujjain also have a history of occasional heavy June showers.

This year’s delayed monsoon has kept temperatures elevated in many districts, though the recent spell of rain and thunderstorms has provided some relief to residents. Farmers and urban dwellers alike are now watching the skies closely for further developments.

Public Reaction and Preparedness

Many in the affected areas welcomed the rain after days of intense heat, though concerns remain about damage to crops from hail. Local administration in vulnerable districts is on standby to respond to any weather-related emergencies.

As the state waits for the full arrival of the monsoon, officials have urged people to avoid open areas during thunderstorms and to follow weather updates closely. The coming days are expected to remain dynamic with alternating spells of rain and heat across different regions.

Raipur, Sarguja and Korba witness sudden weather shift with strong winds and rainfall, temperatures drop by 5 degrees

The southwest monsoon is likely to enter Chhattisgarh within the next 72 hours, with weather conditions turning favourable across the state. Officials from the meteorological department confirmed on Thursday that pre-monsoon activity has already intensified, bringing much-needed relief from the prolonged heat spell.

 Sudden Weather Shift Hits Cities

Thursday evening saw a dramatic change across Raipur, Sarguja and Korba. Strong winds accompanied by rainfall swept through these districts, catching many residents off guard. In Korba, clouds lingered through the day before heavy spells began post-afternoon. 

Children were spotted sailing paper boats through waterlogged streets in several neighbourhoods. Sarguja witnessed intense showers late Thursday evening, while Durg also recorded significant rainfall, giving residents a break from the oppressive humidity.

 Temperature Drops Across Southern Districts

The past 24 hours have recorded a decline of up to 5 degrees Celsius in maximum temperatures across southern Chhattisgarh. Northern and central parts of the state, however, showed no major variation.

Rajnandgaon remained the hottest spot in the state at 43 degrees Celsius. Jagdalpur recorded the lowest minimum temperature at 23.1 degrees Celsius. 

According to sources in the meteorological department, the combination of moisture incursion and local conditions is accelerating the pre-monsoon setup.

 Two Weather Systems Driving the Change

Meteorologists point to multiple cyclonic circulations over the Bay of Bengal and northern India as key drivers. An active trough line is pulling moisture into the region, creating ideal conditions for the monsoon to advance.

"The systems are working in tandem. Humidity levels have risen noticeably, and thunderstorm activity will increase further," a weather official said on condition of anonymity.

 Alert Issued for Thunderstorms

The department has issued an alert for thunder showers, lightning strikes and dust storms across the state for Friday. Raipur is expected to remain partly cloudy with maximum temperatures hovering around 41 degrees Celsius and minimum near 26 degrees.

Officials advise farmers to plan agricultural activities accordingly and caution residents about potential waterlogging in low-lying areas.

 What Lies Ahead

With the monsoon window opening, authorities are monitoring river levels and drainage systems. The coming days will determine whether the advance remains on schedule or faces delays. For now, the pre-monsoon bursts have offered a glimpse of the larger shift ahead.

Pre-monsoon activity intensified across Madhya Pradesh with hailstorms in Jabalpur and Damoh, while Khajuraho remained the hottest city. Rain alert has been issued for 16 districts on Wednesday.

Madhya Pradesh continued to witness contrasting weather conditions on Tuesday, with intense pre-monsoon activity bringing hailstorms, rain and strong winds to several districts even as parts of the state remained under severe heat stress. Khajuraho recorded the highest maximum temperature at 46 degrees Celsius, highlighting the sharp weather divide across the state.

According to the India Meteorological Department (IMD), hailstorms were reported in Jabalpur and Damoh during the past 24 hours. Rain accompanied by thunderstorms affected at least 18 districts, including Bhind, Datia, Morena, Gwalior, Shivpuri, Sagar, Chhatarpur, Chhindwara, Rewa, Sidhi, Singrauli, Katni, Mandla, Narsinghpur, Satna and Mauganj.

Strong Winds Reported

Jabalpur experienced some of the most severe weather conditions on Tuesday afternoon and evening. Official data showed wind speeds touching 74 kmph, making it the highest recorded gust in the state during the period.

The strong winds were followed by rain and hail in parts of the district. Local reports indicated that a tree collapse damaged several parked vehicles. Similar weather conditions were observed in nearby Damoh.

Apart from Jabalpur, high wind speeds were recorded in several districts. Sidhi reported gusts of 68 kmph, followed by Sagar at 59 kmph and Gwalior at 46 kmph. Moderate to strong winds were also observed in Agar Malwa, Ashoknagar, Rewa, Guna, Shivpuri and Shahdol.

Heat Persists Elsewhere

While many districts received rainfall, heatwave-like conditions continued in other parts of Madhya Pradesh. Khajuraho emerged as the hottest location in the state with a daytime temperature of 46 degrees Celsius.

The persistence of extreme heat alongside thunderstorm activity reflects the ongoing transition phase before the arrival of the southwest monsoon. Meteorologists say such sharp variations are common during the pre-monsoon period, when moisture-bearing winds interact with intense surface heating.

Rain Alert For Wednesday

The weather department has issued a rain alert for 16 districts on Wednesday. These include Barwani, Khargone, Khandwa, Burhanpur, Harda, Narmadapuram, Betul, Narsinghpur, Chhindwara, Pandhurna, Jabalpur, Seoni, Balaghat, Mandla, Dindori and Anuppur.

At the same time, hot and humid conditions are expected to persist in a large number of districts, including Bhopal, Indore, Ujjain, Gwalior, Sagar, Rewa, Singrauli, Shivpuri and Datia. Residents have been advised to remain cautious during afternoon hours as temperatures are likely to stay above normal in many regions.

Forecast Revised

In a notable shift, the IMD has revised its forecast for June 12. Earlier, heatwave warnings had been issued for Bhind, Datia, Niwari, Tikamgarh and Chhatarpur districts.

However, the latest forecast has replaced the heatwave alert with the possibility of hailstorms in Morena, Bhind, Tikamgarh and Chhatarpur. Thunderstorms accompanied by strong winds and rain are expected across large parts of the state.

Monsoon Watch Continues

Weather experts are closely monitoring the progress of the southwest monsoon. The ongoing spell of thunderstorms and scattered rainfall is being linked to active pre-monsoon systems over central India.

Historical weather patterns show that Bhopal has frequently received rainfall during the Nautapa period. Over the past 14 years, rainfall has been recorded during Nautapa on seven occasions, while light drizzle occurred twice. The city has also witnessed significant June rainfall events in recent years.

With changing forecasts and widespread thunderstorm activity, residents across Madhya Pradesh are likely to experience fluctuating weather conditions over the next few days as the state moves closer to the monsoon season.

It is the kind of late evening shower that offers little real relief. Short and sharp, it left the streets of Bhilai and Raipur damp but did little to move the needle on the mercury.

Meteorologists said these isolated spells mark the beginning of a broader transition, with conditions now aligning for a more definitive change.

“The southwest monsoon is expected to advance into parts of Chhattisgarh over the next two to three days,” an official from the India Meteorological Department said. The weather bureau has indicated that the monsoon is likely to pick up pace, bringing more organised rainfall activity across the state by the weekend.

Five-day warning issued

The IMD has issued a forecast predicting thunderstorm activity across many districts over the next five days. Gusty winds reaching 40 to 50 kilometres per hour are expected, accompanied by lightning and brief spells of rain. Officials said multiple weather systems, including cyclonic circulations and a trough line passing through the state, are pulling moisture into the region and driving the current pre-monsoon conditions.

While the rain has brought some cloud cover, maximum temperatures have not seen any significant drop. Raipur’s Mana area recorded the highest temperature at 42.6 degrees Celsius over the past 24 hours, while the coolest spot was Pendra Road at 23.2 degrees.

Scattered showers across districts

On Monday evening, residents in parts of Raipur and Durg districts saw a sudden change in weather. The Bhilai township in Durg experienced a spell of heavy rain, while several pockets in the capital also received short-lived showers.

The weather department has said that monsoon conditions are becoming favourable for further advance into Chhattisgarh, with officials pointing to increased moisture incursion from the Bay of Bengal. However, widespread monsoon conditions are yet to set in across the state.

Temperature remains high

Despite the cloud cover and intermittent rain, the heat continues to persist in most parts. Rajnandgaon remained the hottest location in the state, recording a maximum of 43.5 degrees Celsius. Ambikapur saw the lowest minimum temperature at 24.5 degrees.

For Raipur, the forecast for the coming days indicates partly cloudy skies with the possibility of thunderstorms and dust storms. Humidity levels, however, are expected to remain high, ensuring that discomfort levels stay elevated despite the rain.

What lies ahead

The IMD has maintained that the southwest monsoon is progressing steadily across the country. Officials said conditions are favourable for the monsoon to move into remaining parts of Chhattisgarh, Odisha and Vidarbha over the next 48 to 72 hours.

For now, the state remains in a waiting period. The pre-monsoon showers offer glimpses of what is to come, but the real change will only arrive when the monsoon current establishes itself fully. That, according to the weather bureau, is now just days away.

Heavy pre-monsoon activity disrupted normal life across several states on Friday, with hailstorms in Rajasthan, 100 kmph winds in Uttar Pradesh, and fresh rain alerts issued in more than 15 states. The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has also revised its monsoon rainfall forecast downward, raising concerns over a weaker rainy season this year.

Storms Replace Heat

Instead of the usual intense ‘Nautapa’ heatwave conditions, large parts of north and central India witnessed thunderstorms, rain and gusty winds since Thursday night. In Uttar Pradesh, strong winds and rain swept through Lucknow, Prayagraj, Jhansi and Chandauli early Friday morning.

Initial reports indicate wind speeds touched nearly 100 kmph in some districts. In Hamirpur, an under-construction bridge reportedly collapsed during the storm, killing six people. Local authorities said rescue teams were deployed soon after the incident.

The IMD has issued storm alerts for all 75 districts of Uttar Pradesh. Saharanpur also reported hailstorm activity, while in Jhansi, a heavy advertising structure was uprooted due to strong winds.

Hail During Nautapa

Rajasthan, which has been battling severe heat over the past week, saw sudden weather changes in several districts. Sri Ganganagar received hail late Thursday evening despite recording a maximum temperature of 47.1 degrees Celsius.

The weather department has issued alerts for rain and thunderstorms in at least 12 districts. Jaipur recorded its hottest day of the season on Thursday, with temperatures crossing 45 degrees Celsius, though officials expect some relief over the weekend.

In Uttarakhand’s Pithoragarh, residents reported unusually large hailstones, some described as egg-sized. Videos from the area showed damaged plastic furniture and slippery roads after the storm.

IMD Cuts Rainfall Forecast

The IMD on Friday said India may receive below-normal rainfall during the 2026 monsoon season. According to officials, the estimated seasonal rainfall has now been reduced to around 78 cm, down from the earlier forecast of 80 cm issued last month.

The country’s long-period average rainfall stands at 87 cm based on data from 1971 to 2020. IMD Deputy Director General Dr M. Mohapatra said the rainfall this year could remain around 90% of the Long Period Average (LPA), slightly lower than previous estimates.

If the projection holds, this would be among the weakest monsoon performances since 2018.

Monsoon Arrival Delayed

The southwest monsoon, meanwhile, remains stalled near the Kerala coast. The IMD had earlier forecast an early onset around May 26, nearly five days ahead of schedule, but the system has shown little movement over the past several days.

Private weather agency Skymet now expects the monsoon to reach Kerala between June 3 and June 4. According to weather experts, atmospheric conditions over the Arabian Sea are currently slowing further advancement.

The monsoon had entered the Andaman region around May 16, initially indicating a faster progression.

Damage Across States

Odisha reported three deaths linked to lightning strikes and storm-related incidents over the last 24 hours. Officials said more than 250 homes were damaged in districts including Mayurbhanj, Keonjhar, Rourkela and Angul. Trees and electric poles were uprooted in several areas.

In Chhattisgarh, strong winds uprooted trees in Raigarh and Sukma, while parts of Madhya Pradesh, including Damoh, witnessed rain and hail. Bengaluru also saw traffic disruptions after trees collapsed during an evening storm on Thursday.

Delhi-NCR and nearby Noida experienced traffic snarls after sudden rainfall during peak hours.

Heatwave Still Persists

Despite widespread rain activity, heatwave conditions continue in pockets of Madhya Pradesh, Gujarat and coastal states. The IMD has issued orange alerts for severe heat in districts such as Morena, Sheopur, Tikamgarh and Chhatarpur in Madhya Pradesh.

Meteorologists said temperatures could gradually dip over Punjab, Haryana, Delhi and western Uttar Pradesh over the next two days as thunderstorm activity intensifies.

For now, the pre-monsoon rain alert remains active across much of north, central and eastern India, with officials advising people to remain cautious during thunderstorms and strong wind activity.

Chhattisgarh Weather Alert: Thunderstorm, Rain Likely for Two Days 

The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued a thunderstorm and rain alert for Chhattisgarh over the next two days, with strong winds gusting up to 50 kmph and lightning strikes posing risks across several districts.

The fresh warning comes after parts of the state experienced a sudden shift in weather on Saturday night. Residents in Raipur woke up to strong gusts accompanied by moderate rainfall and hail in some pockets. Similar spells of thundershowers were recorded in northern, central, and southern regions over the past 24 hours.

Lightning Claims 20 Cattle

Tragedy struck in two districts amid the stormy conditions. In Bijapur district, lightning killed 10 cattle. Another 10 animals perished in the Rajmergarh area of Gaur ela-Pendra-Marwahi (GPM) district after being struck during the downpour. Local officials confirmed the losses, adding that such incidents highlight the vulnerability of livestock during pre-monsoon activity.

Farmers in affected villages expressed concern over the economic impact. Many rely on cattle for livelihood, and sudden losses like these add to their hardships, especially as the farming season gains pace.

Widespread Rain and Gusty Winds Forecast

According to the meteorological department, isolated to scattered thunderstorms with lightning and gusty winds are expected in several parts of the state during the next 48 hours. Wind speeds may touch 40-50 km per hour in stronger spells. Officials have advised people to avoid open areas, standing under trees, or near water bodies during thunderstorms.

The alert covers both rural and urban pockets, with particular caution for farmers and those in low-lying areas. Authorities are also monitoring for any waterlogging in low-lying parts of Raipur and other major towns.

Temperature Trends to Watch

While rain and thunderstorms will bring temporary relief, the maximum temperatures are likely to rise by 3 to 4 degrees Celsius over the next four days before stabilising. Bilaspur recorded the highest maximum temperature of 39.5 degrees Celsius recently, while Raipur saw a minimum of 21.5 degrees Celsius.

This mixed weather pattern—rain followed by a gradual rise in heat—is typical for this time of the year in Chhattisgarh, as the state transitions towards the full onset of monsoon.

Ground Reality and Public Response

In Raipur, Saturday night’s showers brought much-needed respite from the lingering heat, though strong winds caused minor inconveniences like fallen branches in some localities. Local administration teams remained on standby to clear any obstructions quickly.

In rural districts like Bijapur and GPM, the incidents of lightning have prompted renewed calls for awareness. Extension workers are advising farmers to secure cattle in safer sheds and avoid leaving them in open fields during stormy weather. Some villagers have started installing basic lightning conductors on key structures, though coverage remains limited.

Broader Context of Pre-Monsoon Activity

Chhattisgarh frequently witnesses such pre-monsoon disturbances, which bring both relief from summer heat and risks from lightning and gusty winds. Last week too, several districts reported similar events, including human casualties and property damage in some areas.

Meteorologists note that climate patterns have made these events somewhat more intense and frequent in recent years. The department is expected to issue updated forecasts as the situation evolves.

What Lies Ahead

With the two-day alert in place, residents and farmers are urged to stay updated through official channels. The state government has asked district administrations to remain vigilant and ensure quick response to any emergency. As temperatures edge up again after the current spell, the possibility of more scattered showers cannot be ruled out in the coming week.