Monsoon activity remains subdued across Chhattisgarh, with the state recording 4 per cent less rainfall than normal so far this season. However, weather conditions are expected to improve over the next two days, with the India Meteorological Department (IMD) forecasting increased rainfall activity in several parts of the state.

The weather department has indicated that some areas could receive light to moderate rain on Monday, September 7. Thunderstorms accompanied by lightning are also possible at several places during the next two days. While the current forecast points towards an increase in rain activity, no warning for extremely heavy rainfall has been issued at present.

The recent slowdown has contributed to the widening rainfall deficit. Only isolated parts of Chhattisgarh received very light to light rainfall during the past 24 hours, while most areas remained largely dry. The developing low-pressure area over southwest Uttar Pradesh and associated weather systems are expected to increase moisture over Chhattisgarh, potentially triggering more rainfall activity.

Rainfall deficit reaches 4 per cent

Chhattisgarh has received 950.6 mm of rainfall between June 1 and September 6, against the normal rainfall of 990.8 mm for the corresponding period. This translates into a deficit of around 4 per cent.

The deficit had previously stood at about 2 per cent, indicating that the recent reduction in rainfall activity has widened the gap. However, the current shortfall is not considered significant at the state level, and increased rainfall over the coming days could narrow the deficit.

Thunderstorms possible in Raipur

Raipur could receive rain or thundershowers on Monday. The maximum temperature is expected to remain around 32 degrees Celsius, while the minimum temperature could settle near 25 degrees Celsius.

Residents in areas that experience thunderstorms have been advised to exercise caution during lightning activity and avoid exposed locations.

Bilaspur, Rajnandgaon among warmest

On Sunday, Bilaspur and Rajnandgaon recorded the highest maximum temperature in the state at 32.5 degrees Celsius.

Pendra Road was the coolest among the locations cited, with the minimum temperature dropping to 20.8 degrees Celsius.

With the southwest monsoon season approaching its final phase, rainfall distribution across the state remains uneven. Some districts have received substantially more rain than their seasonal average, while others continue to face significant deficits.

Balrampur records 70 per cent excess rain

Balrampur has received the highest rainfall in the state so far this monsoon season. The district recorded 1,436.7 mm of rain against its normal rainfall of 846.1 mm, resulting in a surplus of around 70 per cent.

Other districts with comparatively strong rainfall totals include Sarangarh-Bilaigarh, which received 1,105 mm, followed by Mungeli at 1,054.1 mm and Raipur at 1,050.6 mm. Baloda Bazar recorded 967.2 mm during the period.

The figures underline the uneven distribution of monsoon rainfall across Chhattisgarh, with excess rainfall in some districts offset by substantial shortages elsewhere.

Bemetara faces biggest rainfall deficit

Bemetara has recorded the lowest rainfall among the districts cited in the report, receiving 539.9 mm against a normal of 910.5 mm. This represents a deficit of 41 per cent.

Other districts facing rainfall shortages include Kabirdham, which has received 595.6 mm, Surguja at 632.3 mm, Kanker at 729.1 mm and Jashpur at 765.8 mm.

The weather situation could change over the next couple of days if the forecast increase in moisture and rainfall materialises. For now, the focus remains on the developing weather system and its potential to strengthen monsoon activity across Chhattisgarh as the season enters its final stretch.

The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has forecast light to moderate rainfall across several parts of Chhattisgarh on Monday, along with the possibility of heavy rain, thunderstorms and lightning at isolated places. Similar weather conditions are expected to continue over the next two days, prompting authorities to advise residents to remain cautious.

Meanwhile, continuous rainfall has caused significant disruption in Bilaspur district after a bridge on the Bilaspur–Ratanpur–Pendra road collapsed, temporarily affecting connectivity to several districts and neighbouring Madhya Pradesh.

Rainfall to Continue Across State

According to the Meteorological Department, most parts of Chhattisgarh are likely to witness intermittent rain during the next 48 hours. Heavy showers accompanied by thunder and lightning may occur at isolated locations.

Several areas recorded light to moderate rainfall during the past 24 hours, contributing to the ongoing monsoon activity across the state.

Monsoon Deficit Remains Within Normal Range

Despite uneven rainfall in some districts, Chhattisgarh has received only 5 per cent less rainfall than normal between June 1 and August 3, which the weather department has classified as being within the normal range.

Officials said the current monsoon pattern continues to support agricultural activities, although heavy spells in some regions have led to localised flooding and infrastructure damage.

Bridge Collapse Disrupts Key Road Link

Persistent rainfall damaged the Bansajhal bridge on the Bilaspur–Ratanpur–Pendra route after a portion of the structure collapsed.

A passenger bus travelling across the bridge became stranded midway during the incident. Authorities confirmed that all passengers were safely evacuated and no injuries were reported.

The bridge collapse has disrupted direct road connectivity between Bilaspur, Pendra, Gaurela, Amarkantak, Manendragarh, and parts of Jabalpur and Shahdol in Madhya Pradesh, forcing commuters to seek alternate routes.

Flood Situation Monitored

The continuing monsoon has also affected several low-lying areas across the state.

Earlier, BSF camps in Narayanpur were inundated due to floodwaters, forcing security personnel to move onto rooftops before they were safely rescued. Rising water levels have also been reported near the Kunavaram bridge, where water continues to flow over the structure near the confluence of the Sabari and Godavari rivers.

Authorities are monitoring vulnerable areas and have advised residents to avoid crossing flooded roads and bridges.

Raipur Forecast and Temperature

The weather department has predicted a cloudy sky with spells of rain and thunderstorms for Raipur on Monday.

The state capital is expected to record a maximum temperature of around 34°C and a minimum of approximately 26°C.

Across Chhattisgarh, Rajnandgaon recorded the state's highest maximum temperature at 34°C, while Pendra Roadremained the coolest location with a minimum temperature of 22.4°C.

Officials have urged people to remain alert during thunderstorms and avoid taking shelter under trees or near electric poles during lightning activity.

The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has forecast an active spell of monsoon across Chhattisgarh, with heavy to very heavy rainfall and thunderstorms likely over several parts of the state over the next four days. The weather activity is being driven by a Depression over the northwest Bay of Bengal, which is expected to intensify into a Deep Depression before crossing the Odisha-West Bengal coast on July 27.

According to the IMD's Special Press Release issued on Sunday, light to moderate rainfall is expected at most places across Chhattisgarh on July 27, while heavy to very heavy rainfall accompanied by thunderstorms and lightning is likely at isolated locations.

Active Monsoon to Continue

The IMD said the Depression over the Bay of Bengal, along with the active monsoon trough and an east-west shear zone across central India, will keep monsoon conditions active over Chhattisgarh for at least the next four days.

Heavy rainfall is expected to continue on July 28, while isolated heavy rain and thunderstorms are likely from July 29 to August 1.

Rainfall and Temperature

During the past 24 hours, light to moderate rainfall occurred at a few places, with heavy to very heavy rain at isolated locations. Seasonal rainfall across Chhattisgarh currently remains 20% below normal, though rainfall activity is expected to improve during the coming days.

The highest maximum temperature recorded in the state was 33°C in Raipur, while the lowest minimum temperature was 22.6°C at Pendra Road.

The IMD has also forecast a 2–4°C fall in maximum temperatures over the next 24 hours, after which temperatures are likely to remain stable.

Raipur Weather

For Raipur, the weather office has forecast a generally cloudy sky with intermittent rain and thundershowers. The city's maximum and minimum temperatures are expected to hover around 29°C and 24°C, respectively.

Public Advisory

The IMD has advised residents to remain indoors during thunderstorms, avoid sheltering under trees, stay away from electric poles and metal structures, and unplug electrical appliances during lightning.

Farmers have been advised to shift harvested crops to safe storage, protect horticultural crops with anti-hail nets where possible, and monitor official weather updates before carrying out agricultural activities.

No flash flood risk has been indicated for the next 24 hours, though authorities have urged people to remain alert as rainfall intensity may increase with the advancing weather system.

The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has forecast widespread rainfall and thunderstorms across Madhya Pradesh on Monday, July 27, as a Depression over the northwest Bay of Bengal is expected to intensify into a Deep Depression before crossing the Odisha-West Bengal coast.

According to the IMD, rain activity is likely to intensify over the state due to the active monsoon trough and associated weather systems. Thunderstorms accompanied by lightning and gusty winds of 30-40 kmph are likely at isolated places across more than 50 districts.

Rainfall Distribution

The weather office has predicted:

• Rain at many places in Anuppur, Shahdol, Umaria, Dindori, Katni, Jabalpur, Chhindwara, Seoni, Mandla, Balaghat and Pandhurna.

• Rain at a few places in Raisen, Narmadapuram, Betul, Harda, Singrauli, Sidhi, Rewa, Mauganj, Satna, Narsinghpur, Panna, Damoh, Sagar, Chhatarpur, Tikamgarh, Niwari and Maihar.

• Rain at isolated places in Bhopal, Vidisha, Sehore, Rajgarh, Indore, Ujjain, Dewas, Dhar, Ratlam, Mandsaur, Neemuch, Gwalior, Morena, Bhind, Datia, Shivpuri, Guna, Ashoknagar, Khargone, Khandwa, Burhanpur, Barwani, Alirajpur and Jhabua.

Thunderstorm Warning

The IMD has issued a warning for lightning, thunderstorms and gusty winds (30–40 kmph) for districts including Bhopal, Indore, Ujjain, Gwalior, Jabalpur, Shahdol, Rewa, Sehore, Raisen, Dewas, Ratlam, Dhar, Mandsaur, Neemuch, Chhindwara, Balaghat, Panna, Sagar and Tikamgarh.

Residents have been advised to avoid open areas during thunderstorms, stay away from trees and electric poles, unplug electrical appliances during lightning, and avoid unnecessary travel during severe weather.

Bhopal Forecast

For Bhopal, the IMD has forecast a generally cloudy sky with thunderstorms, lightning and rainfall during the day. The city is expected to record a maximum temperature of 29°C and a minimum temperature of 23°C.

Farm Advisory

The IMD has advised farmers to postpone irrigation, fertilizer application and pesticide spraying during rainfall. Farmers have also been asked to ensure proper drainage in fields, secure harvested produce and machinery, and keep livestock in protected shelters.

The weather office added that temperatures over eastern Madhya Pradesh are expected to decline by 2–3°C over the next three days as rainfall activity increases.

The latest forecast comes as the southwest monsoon remains active over the state. During the past 24 hours, several districts recorded light to moderate rainfall, while isolated pockets received heavier showers. According to weather officials, the prevailing atmospheric conditions are favourable for continued rainfall across much of the state.

Raipur and Durg recorded the highest daytime temperature of 30.8 degrees Celsius during the period, while Pendra Road registered the lowest minimum temperature at 21 degrees Celsius.

Among the districts that received significant rainfall, Dharamjaigarh recorded around 30 mm, the highest in the state. Lailunga, Korba, Kapu and Kharsia each received nearly 20 mm of rain. Moderate showers were also reported from Bijapur, Naya Baradwar, Kartala, Salhewara, Lal Bahadur Nagar, Kansabel, Pathalgaon and Manpur, where around 10 mm rainfall was measured.

The Meteorological Department has indicated that rainfall activity is expected to intensify over the next two days. While light to moderate showers are likely across many districts, isolated locations in central and northern Chhattisgarh could witness moderate to heavy rainfall.

Officials have also warned of thunderstorms accompanied by lightning at isolated places. Residents have been advised to avoid open fields, water bodies and sheltering under trees during lightning activity. Farmers and people working outdoors have been asked to monitor weather updates before venturing out.

The continuing rainfall is being driven by favourable synoptic conditions over central India. According to meteorologists, the monsoon trough currently extends from Jaisalmer through a low-pressure area over southwest Rajasthan, passing via Kota, Guna, Sidhi and Daltonganj before reaching the northeast Bay of Bengal.

In addition, an upper-air cyclonic circulation persists over northern Gangetic West Bengal and adjoining Bangladesh. Weather experts expect a fresh low-pressure area to develop over the region within the next 24 hours, which could further strengthen rainfall activity across Chhattisgarh and neighbouring states.

Despite intermittent heavy showers in some areas, seasonal rainfall across Chhattisgarh remains within the normal category. From June 1 until now, the state has recorded rainfall that is around 18 per cent below the long-period average. However, the IMD classifies rainfall between minus 19 per cent and plus 19 per cent as "normal," meaning the state's overall monsoon performance continues to remain within acceptable limits.

In the capital, Raipur, cloudy skies are expected to persist throughout Friday. Meteorologists have forecast one or two spells of rain or thundershowers during the day. The maximum temperature is likely to hover around 31 degrees Celsius, while the minimum temperature may remain close to 24 degrees Celsius.

The latest weather advisory comes amid rising concern over swollen rivers and waterlogged areas following continuous rainfall in several districts. In Bilaspur district, rescue teams are continuing their search for a fisherman who was swept away by the strong current of the Shivnath River earlier this week, underscoring the risks associated with overflowing rivers during the monsoon season.

Authorities have appealed to people living near rivers, streams and low-lying areas to remain alert as rainfall continues. District administrations have also advised commuters to exercise caution on waterlogged roads and avoid crossing flooded stretches until water levels recede.

With the monsoon expected to remain active over the coming days, weather officials will continue monitoring the evolving system and issue fresh advisories if rainfall intensity increases.

The southwest monsoon is expected to regain momentum across Chhattisgarh from Wednesday after a two-day dry spell, with the India Meteorological Department (IMD) forecasting light to moderate rainfall across many districts and heavy showers, thunderstorms and lightning at isolated locations.

Cloudy skies prevailed over Raipur on Wednesday morning, with light drizzle reported from parts of the city. Weather officials said rainfall activity is likely to intensify across the state as fresh monsoon systems become active.

Rainfall Activity Set to Increase

According to the IMD, several districts are likely to receive light to moderate rainfall, while isolated areas may witness heavy rain accompanied by thunderstorms and lightning over the coming days.

Raipur is expected to remain cloudy throughout the day, with intermittent rain and thunderstorms. The city is likely to record a maximum temperature of around 35°C and a minimum of 27°C.

State Witnessed 48-Hour Dry Spell

The weather department said no rainfall was recorded anywhere in Chhattisgarh during the past 48 hours, marking an unusual dry phase for July, traditionally the state's wettest month.

Meteorologists attributed the dry conditions to a 'break monsoon', a phenomenon in which the monsoon trough weakens and rain-bearing systems shift away from central India, temporarily reducing rainfall activity.

Officials said the weather pattern is now changing, with fresh systems expected to revive rainfall across the region.

Rainfall Still 29% Below Normal

Despite forecasts of improved rainfall, Chhattisgarh continues to face a significant seasonal rainfall deficit.

Between June 1 and July 14, the state received 29 per cent less rainfall than normal, according to IMD data.

Out of the state's 32 districts, rainfall remains below normal in 16 districts, while 14 districts have recorded near-normal precipitation. Only one district has reported rainfall categorised as significantly above normal.

Sarangarh-Bilaigarh Records Highest Rainfall

Sarangarh-Bilaigarh has emerged as the state's wettest district this monsoon season, recording 462.5 mm of rainfall, nearly 74 per cent above the normal average of 265.7 mm.

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

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

July Rain Crucial for Kharif Crops

Agriculture experts note that the first half of July is the most critical period for sowing kharif crops, particularly paddy.

Below-normal rainfall in several districts could affect sowing operations and the initial growth of crops if rainfall does not improve in the coming days.

With the monsoon expected to become active again, farmers are hoping the upcoming showers will help bridge the rainfall deficit and improve soil moisture across agricultural regions.

Weather officials have advised residents to remain alert during thunderstorms and avoid open areas during lightning activity.

The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued a heavy rainfall alert for parts of central and northern Chhattisgarh, warning of thunderstorms and lightning at isolated locations over the next 24 hours. The advisory comes as the southwest monsoon remains active across the state under the influence of a low-pressure area over southern Jharkhand and adjoining northern Odisha.

According to the weather department, widespread rainfall was recorded across several districts during the past 24 hours, with heavy showers reported in parts of central Chhattisgarh. The low-pressure system is expected to move towards northern Chhattisgarh via northern Odisha, sustaining rainfall activity in many regions through Tuesday.

The IMD has advised residents in vulnerable areas to remain alert, particularly during thunderstorms and lightning. Local authorities have also been asked to monitor weather conditions and take precautionary measures wherever required.

Rainfall Deficit Narrows

Despite the recent spell of rain, Chhattisgarh continues to record below-normal monsoon rainfall this season. Data released by the IMD shows that the state received 213 mm of rainfall between June 1 and July 6, compared to the normal average of 258.3 mm during the same period.

This represents a rainfall deficit of around 18 percent. However, the state continues to remain within the IMD's 'normal' rainfall category, indicating that the shortfall is not yet considered severe.

Rain Activity to Reduce Gradually

Meteorologists expect rainfall intensity to begin weakening from July 8 onward. While scattered showers are likely to continue across the state, the widespread heavy rainfall experienced over the past few days is expected to reduce gradually as the low-pressure system moves away.

Raipur Weather Forecast

For Raipur, the weather department has forecast cloudy skies throughout the day, accompanied by intermittent rainfall, thunderstorms and gusty winds. The city is likely to record a maximum temperature of around 28°C and a minimum of 24°C.

Temperature Across the State

On Monday, Pendra Road recorded the state's highest maximum temperature at 30.8°C, while Rajnandgaon registered the lowest minimum temperature at 21°C, reflecting the cooling effect of persistent rainfall across the region.

Authorities have urged people to avoid taking shelter under trees during thunderstorms, stay away from waterlogged areas, and follow official weather advisories until conditions improve.

After enduring intense heat and humidity throughout the day, Bilaspur experienced heavy rain accompanied by strong winds and thunderstorms on Monday evening, bringing much-needed relief from soaring temperatures. However, the season's first major downpour exposed the city's inadequate monsoon preparedness, leaving several roads and residential colonies waterlogged while widespread power outages disrupted normal life.

The powerful thunderstorm uprooted trees and damaged electricity infrastructure across the city, resulting in prolonged power cuts in more than half of Bilaspur. Even the VIP zone, which houses the official residences of the District Collector, Commissioner, judges and the city MLA, remained without electricity until nearly 11 p.m.

According to the India Meteorological Department (IMD), Bilaspur recorded a maximum temperature of 38°C, nearly 4.9 degrees above normal. Despite Monday's rainfall, the city has received only 16.1 mm of rainfall during June, contributing to persistent heat conditions. Bilaspur also remained Chhattisgarh's hottest city on eight occasions during the past 13 days.

First Heavy Rain Exposes Civic Infrastructure

The Municipal Corporation had earlier claimed that drains and canals had been cleaned three times before the onset of the monsoon. However, the first spell of heavy rain led to severe waterlogging across major roads, intersections and residential areas. Overflowing drains and poor drainage systems caused significant inconvenience to commuters, residents and traders.

Following the incident, the Mayor directed all zonal commissioners to inspect waterlogged areas, submit detailed reports and initiate immediate corrective measures to prevent similar situations during the remainder of the monsoon season.

Strong Winds Uproot Trees, Damage Vehicles

The thunderstorm caused several trees to collapse across the city. A large tree fell near the Collector's residence, damaging a parked car. Fortunately, no injuries were reported. Similar incidents were reported near IG Square and other locations where fallen trees damaged electricity lines and obstructed traffic.

Municipal Corporation teams, assisted by JCB machines, worked late into the night to clear roads, remove fallen trees and restore normal traffic movement.

Power Infrastructure Suffers Major Damage

The storm caused extensive damage to Bilaspur's electricity network. An 11 kV high-voltage power line snapped near the Collector's residence, disrupting electricity supply throughout the VIP area.

The 33 kV main transmission line connected to the Tifra and Mopka substations also suffered a breakdown. Additionally, nine insulators on an 11 kV line between Birkona and Chantidih burst simultaneously, leaving several localities across the Arpa River without electricity until late at night.

A current transformer (CT) failure at the Shanichari substation further disrupted power supply in nearby areas for nearly four hours.

Neighbourhoods including Sarkanda, Mangla, Nehru Nagar, Kududand, Aman Vihar, Gol Bazaar, Masanganj, Hemunagar, Vidyanagar, Dayalband, Vyapar Vihar, Imlibhatha, Tikrapara, Ganesh Nagar and Ayodhya Nagar remained affected by prolonged outages.

More Rain Expected Today

The India Meteorological Department has forecast further rainfall accompanied by thunderstorms and lightning across Bilaspur and neighbouring districts on Tuesday due to active weather systems over the region.

The southwest monsoon has officially entered Chhattisgarh through Dantewada, marking the beginning of the rainy season in the state. Weather officials said the monsoon is expected to expand into more districts over the next few days, bringing increased rainfall activity across southern, central and northern regions.

Following the monsoon's arrival, several parts of the state witnessed a sudden change in weather on Monday afternoon. Raipur, Raigarh and nearby areas received heavy rainfall accompanied by strong winds, providing relief from the prevailing heat but also causing temporary disruptions in some localities.

In Raipur, intense showers led to waterlogging on Mahadevghat Road in the Sundarnagar area. Commuters faced difficulties as rainwater accumulated on sections of the road, slowing traffic movement and affecting daily travel.

The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued a five-day alert for thunderstorms, lightning and light to moderate rainfall across the state. Meteorologists said weather conditions remain favourable for further advancement of the monsoon into additional parts of Chhattisgarh, including Raigarh and adjoining districts.

With the monsoon now active over Bastar division, rainfall intensity is expected to increase significantly in the region. Weather experts believe the seasonal system will gradually move northward and cover central and northern districts in the coming days.

Despite the arrival of monsoon conditions, parts of central Chhattisgarh may continue to experience above-normal temperatures over the next two days. According to the weather department, maximum temperatures in some districts could remain 3 to 5 degrees Celsius above normal, creating heatwave-like conditions before widespread rainfall brings relief.

Officials have advised residents to remain cautious during thunderstorm activity and avoid open spaces during lightning events. The department has warned that strong winds may accompany rainfall in several areas.

Temperature data released by the weather department showed Bilaspur as the hottest location in the state, recording a maximum temperature of 41.8 degrees Celsius. Ambikapur remained the coolest, with the minimum temperature settling at 22.9 degrees Celsius.

Raipur also experienced a sharp weather shift during the afternoon. After a hot and humid start to the day, dark clouds gathered over the city, followed by gusty winds and heavy showers in multiple areas. The city’s maximum temperature is expected to remain around 40 degrees Celsius, while the minimum temperature is likely to be close to 29 degrees Celsius.

The progress of the monsoon is being closely watched, particularly by farmers awaiting adequate rainfall for agricultural activities. A sustained spell of rain over the coming week could improve soil moisture levels and support the beginning of kharif sowing operations in several districts.

With favourable atmospheric conditions continuing over central India, meteorologists expect rainfall activity to remain active across Chhattisgarh throughout the week.

Chhattisgarh is expected to witness continued weather activity over the next five days, with the India Meteorological Department forecasting thunderstorms, lightning and light to moderate rainfall across several parts of the state.

According to the weather department, the southwest monsoon is likely to advance into additional regions of Chhattisgarh around June 23, potentially increasing rainfall activity in the coming days. The forecast comes after multiple districts recorded showers and thunderstorm activity during the last 24 hours.

While rain brought some relief to parts of the state, temperatures remained high in several areas. Raipur emerged as the hottest location in Chhattisgarh, recording a maximum temperature of 40.8 degrees Celsius. Pendra Road reported the lowest minimum temperature at 22.8 degrees Celsius.

The changing weather pattern has also led to tragic incidents.

In Sakti district, an 11-year-old schoolgirl lost her life after being struck by lightning on Friday evening. The victim, identified as Deepti Chandra, was a Class 6 student and was reportedly playing outside her house in Anda village when the incident occurred.

Preliminary information suggests that lightning struck the area suddenly during unstable weather conditions. The impact proved fatal, and the child died on the spot. The incident has left the local community and the victim’s family in shock.

The fatality highlights the risks associated with lightning strikes during the pre-monsoon and early monsoon period. Authorities and weather experts regularly advise residents to avoid open spaces and seek shelter during thunderstorms, particularly in rural areas where people often remain outdoors.

The Sakti incident is not the only weather-related tragedy reported recently. In Raigarh district, a woman died after a wall collapsed during heavy rain, while two others sustained injuries. Such incidents have raised concerns about public safety as weather conditions become increasingly unpredictable across the region.

Meteorologists say the current weather activity is being driven by favourable atmospheric conditions supporting thundercloud formation over central and northern parts of the state. As the monsoon progresses further into Chhattisgarh, more districts could experience spells of rain accompanied by gusty winds and lightning.

In Raipur, partly cloudy skies are expected through the day, with the possibility of thunderstorms and rain. The maximum temperature is likely to remain around 40 degrees Celsius, while the minimum temperature may hover near 27 degrees Celsius.

Officials have urged residents to remain cautious during periods of thunderstorm activity. People have been advised to avoid standing under trees, near electric poles, or in open fields when lightning is reported. Farmers, outdoor workers and children have been identified as particularly vulnerable during such weather events.

With the monsoon expected to advance further into the state this week, authorities are closely monitoring weather developments. Further updates are expected as conditions evolve.

An 11-year-old girl died after being struck by lightning in Sakti district, while the weather department has issued a two-day alert for thunderstorms and lightning across several parts of Chhattisgarh.

 A Class 6 student was killed after being struck by lightning in Chhattisgarh's Sakti district amid widespread thunderstorm activity across the state. The incident occurred on Friday evening in Gram Anda, where the child was reportedly playing outside her house when the lightning strike took place.

The deceased has been identified as Deepti Chandra, 11. According to local reports, the lightning struck suddenly during adverse weather conditions, leading to her death on the spot. The incident has cast a shadow over the village as residents continue to cope with unstable weather across the region.

The tragedy comes at a time when the India Meteorological Department (IMD) has warned of thunderstorms, lightning and gusty winds in different parts of the state over the next two days.

Weather Alert Issued

The weather department has forecast continued thunderstorm activity across several districts of Chhattisgarh. Officials have advised residents to remain cautious, especially during periods of lightning and strong winds.

Meteorologists say changing atmospheric conditions are likely to trigger scattered rainfall accompanied by thunder and lightning in many areas through the weekend.

Authorities have urged people to avoid open fields, isolated trees and exposed locations during thunderstorms.

Storm Activity Across State

Over the past 24 hours, weather conditions remained active across all divisions of Chhattisgarh.

Many districts witnessed thunderstorms, strong winds and intermittent rainfall. The weather activity provided some relief from heat in several places but also increased the risk of lightning-related incidents and structural damage.

In recent days, rain and storm-related incidents have been reported from different districts, highlighting the impact of the changing weather pattern.

Temperatures Remain High

Despite rainfall in many areas, temperatures continue to remain relatively high across parts of the state.

Raipur recorded the highest maximum temperature in Chhattisgarh at 37 degrees Celsius during the last 24 hours. Ambikapur reported the lowest minimum temperature at 22.7 degrees Celsius.

Weather experts say fluctuations in temperature and humidity levels are contributing to the formation of thunderclouds and localised storm activity.

Previous Rain-Related Incidents

The latest lightning fatality follows other weather-related incidents reported this week.

In Raigarh district, a woman lost her life and two others were injured after a wall collapsed during heavy rain and storm conditions. Local authorities have been monitoring vulnerable areas as rainfall activity intensifies in parts of the state.

Officials have appealed to residents to remain alert and follow safety advisories issued by district administrations and disaster management agencies.

Rain Likely in Raipur

The weather department has predicted cloudy conditions and spells of rain accompanied by thunder and lightning in Raipur on Saturday.

The state capital is expected to record a maximum temperature of around 38 degrees Celsius and a minimum temperature of approximately 28 degrees Celsius.

Meteorologists say weather conditions are likely to remain favourable for scattered showers across central and northern districts of Chhattisgarh over the next couple of days.

Safety Advisory

Disaster management officials have reiterated that lightning poses a serious risk during the monsoon and pre-monsoon period. Residents have been advised to immediately move indoors when thunder is heard and avoid using electrical appliances during storms.

With lightning alerts remaining in force across multiple districts, authorities are closely monitoring the situation and have urged citizens to stay updated through official weather bulletins.

The death of the young student in Sakti serves as a reminder of the dangers associated with severe weather as Chhattisgarh enters a period of heightened thunderstorm activity.

Weather department warns of increased thunderstorm, gusty winds and rain from June 11; Raipur, Durg and Bilaspur saw evening showers.

Monsoon arrival expected
Chhattisgarh is likely to receive the south‑west monsoon in parts of the state within the next three to four days, the India Meteorological Department (IMD) said on Thursday. According to officials, conditions have become favourable for the monsoon’s progress, and residents should expect a marked increase in thunderstorm, rain and strong wind activity from June 11.

Evening showers, relief from heat
On Wednesday evening several districts—including Raipur, Durg and Bilaspur—saw sudden gusty winds followed by brief spells of rain, providing temporary relief from intense heat and humidity. Local reporters in Durg said clouds built up through the afternoon and heavy showers began around late evening, bringing down dust and temperatures for a few hours.

Wind alert issued
The meteorological office has issued warnings for gusty winds of 50–60 kilometres per hour across different parts of the state on Thursday. “There may be squally winds accompanied by thunder and lightning in isolated pockets,” an IMD bulletin stated. Officials added similar conditions could persist for the next two days, raising the risk of dust storms and localized damage to weak structures and trees.

Temperature trends
The IMD expects a fall in maximum temperatures by about 2–3°C over the next two days as cloudy skies and rain set in. In the past 24 hours, parts of south Chhattisgarh recorded a slight rise in daytime heat by 1–2°C. Rajnandgaon logged the highest maximum temperature at 44°C, while Ambikapur reported the lowest minimum at 21.4°C overnight.

City outlooks

• Raipur: The capital may see partly cloudy skies with chances of thunder, lightning and a dust storm or rain later in the day. Forecasts put the city’s maximum near 42°C and minimum around 29°C. Local authorities have been asked to keep emergency teams ready for quick response to uprooted trees or damaged signboards.

• Durg: Residents reported sudden heavy downpours after a hot day. Street vendors and commuters said the rain provided immediate respite from oppressive humidity.

• Bilaspur: After a humid day, light rain and gusts swept parts of the district, according to local observers.

Ground cues and timing
Field reporters noted cumulonimbus clouds developing over the plains by late afternoon, accompanied by rising winds that turned dust‑laden in some towns. Initial reports indicate showers lasted from the evening into the night in several pockets, but the IMD cautioned that activity will be intermittent and uneven as the monsoon makes its advance.

Public impact
The wind and rain warnings carry implications for transport, power supply and outdoor work. Farmers welcomed the prospect of the monsoon but were advised to plan sowing only after a sustained rainfall spell. Commuters were urged to exercise caution during dust storms and heavy downpours that can reduce visibility on highways, while municipal bodies were told to clear drains to avoid waterlogging in low‑lying neighbourhoods.

Why it matters
The timing of monsoon onset affects cropping schedules, water management and city services across Chhattisgarh. An early or timely monsoon can ease heat stress and replenish soil moisture, while an erratic start raises concerns for rabi crop residue management and sowing of the kharif crop.

What to expect next
Officials said meteorological updates will follow over the next 48–72 hours as the monsoon axis shifts. “We are monitoring the progress closely; a few districts should see monsoon conditions within three to four days,” an IMD official said. Local administrations have been advised to coordinate with meteorological teams and disaster response units for quick action if squally winds cause damage.

For now, residents should prepare for more unsettled weather—short bursts of rain, thunder, and strong gusts—before the monsoon firmly establishes itself over larger parts of the state.