Sudden Weather Shift in Chhattisgarh; Hailstorms Lash Raigarh, Gariyaband

Met department issues a five-day rain alert for Chhattisgarh as twin weather systems trigger hailstorms and winds of up to 50 kmph

Parts of Chhattisgarh witnessed a dramatic shift in weather on Thursday as severe hailstorms struck Raigarh and Gariyaband, providing a sharp contrast to the ongoing heatwave. The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has forecasted that the state will continue to see light rain, thunderstorms, and lightning across all divisions for the next five days.

The sudden atmospheric change is being driven by two active weather systems. Local authorities reported that the intensity of the hailstorm in Gariyaband’s Indagaon, Udanti, and Jugad areas was significant enough to blanket National Highway 130C and surrounding farmland in a layer of white ice.

Twin Weather Systems Active

Meteorologists at the Raipur center have identified a cyclonic circulation situated near southeast Uttar Pradesh at an altitude of 1.5 km. Simultaneously, a trough line extending from Uttar Pradesh to Odisha is currently passing through Chhattisgarh at a lower altitude of 0.9 km.

"These systems are drawing in moisture, which is triggering convective activity across the state," a weather official noted. The interaction of these systems is expected to sustain the unstable conditions until early next week, with wind speeds likely to touch 50 kmph during peak storm hours.

Mercury to Drop Slightly

While the state has been reeling under intense heat, the current spells of rain are expected to bring marginal relief. Forecasts suggest a dip of 1 to 2 degrees Celsius in maximum temperatures over the next 48 hours. However, no significant fluctuations are anticipated after this initial cooling period for the subsequent three days.

On Thursday, Durg remained the hottest spot in the state with a maximum temperature of 43.6°C. In contrast, Jagdalpur recorded a minimum of 24.1°C following light showers in the southern districts over the last 24 hours.

Ground Impact in Gariyaband

The hailstorm in the Udanti wildlife buffer zone and adjoining areas took residents by surprise on Thursday evening. Commuters on the national highway reported visibility issues as the hail began to accumulate. While the "snow-like" scenery drew onlookers, local farmers expressed concern regarding potential damage to standing crops and vegetables, though a formal assessment by the district administration is still pending.

Alert for High-Speed Winds

The Met Department has issued a specific warning for today, cautioning residents about thunderstorms accompanied by gusty winds ranging between 40 to 50 kmph. Isolated pockets are likely to experience lightning strikes, and the public has been advised to seek shelter in sturdy structures during the squalls.

Raipur Weather Outlook

In the capital city of Raipur, the sky is expected to remain generally cloudy throughout Friday. Local forecasts indicate a high probability of thunderstorms and light rain towards the evening. The maximum temperature in the city is likely to hover around 42°C, while the minimum is expected to stay near 30°C, maintaining a humid environment despite the cloud cover.

Safety Guidelines Issued

Local authorities have urged citizens to stay updated through weather bulletins, especially those traveling through the forest stretches of Bastar and Gariyaband. With the five-day rain alert for Chhattisgarh in effect, lightning remains a primary concern for rural areas. People are advised to stay away from tall trees and electric poles during the afternoon and evening hours when the storm activity typically peaks.

A severe Chhattisgarh heatwave continued to tighten its grip across the state on Monday, with Bilaspur recording the highest maximum temperature at 44.4 degrees Celsius and at least five cities crossing the 42-degree mark. According to officials, dry weather persisted across the state over the past 24 hours, even as the India Meteorological Department (IMD) warned of thunderstorms, lightning and gusty winds in parts of central Chhattisgarh over the next two days.

Bilaspur Hottest in State

Bilaspur remained the hottest location in Chhattisgarh, underlining the intensity of the ongoing heat spell. The weather office said Ambikapur recorded the lowest minimum temperature at 22.5 degrees Celsius, offering little comfort as daytime temperatures remained well above normal across major districts.

Officials indicated that no major change in maximum temperatures was observed during the past 24 hours, and similar conditions are likely to continue for the next three days. A marginal drop of 1 to 3 degrees Celsius may begin thereafter, as per reports.

Storm Alert Issued

Even as heatwave conditions prevailed, the IMD issued a fresh warning for light rainfall, thunderstorms and lightning in isolated areas of the state. Wind speeds may reach 40 to 50 kmph in several districts, particularly in central Chhattisgarh, where unstable weather is expected to develop over the next 48 hours.

The department said the mixed weather pattern may bring brief local relief, but it is unlikely to significantly alter the broader heat conditions across the state.

Central Region on Edge

Parts of central Chhattisgarh are expected to remain under heatwave conditions for the next three days. Weather officials have also warned of “warm night” conditions in some areas, where minimum temperatures may remain significantly above seasonal averages, reducing overnight relief.

Raipur is likely to remain among the worst-hit urban centres. The capital is expected to record a maximum temperature close to 45 degrees Celsius, with the minimum likely to hover around 28 degrees Celsius. This could result in sustained heat stress during both day and night.

Why Temperatures Are Rising

Meteorologists have linked the sharp rise in temperatures to a trough extending from Vidarbha to southern India, along with an upper air cyclonic circulation over the Bengal-Odisha region. This weather pattern has sustained the flow of hot and dry winds into Chhattisgarh, pushing daytime temperatures higher across the plains.

According to officials, these synoptic conditions have also prevented widespread rainfall activity, allowing heat to build steadily across the region.

Public Advisory in Force

The weather department has advised residents to avoid stepping out during peak afternoon hours unless necessary. People have been asked to stay hydrated, wear loose cotton clothing and cover their heads while travelling outdoors.

Officials also urged elderly citizens, children and those with existing health conditions to take extra precautions, as prolonged exposure to heatwave conditions can trigger dehydration, exhaustion and heatstroke.

Relief Still Limited

While isolated showers and gusty winds may offer temporary respite in some pockets, broad relief from the Chhattisgarh heatwave is not expected immediately. The state is likely to continue witnessing a mix of heatwave conditions, warm nights and scattered thunderstorm activity over the next two to three days.

The Chhattisgarh heatwave conditions have intensified across the state, with soaring daytime temperatures pushing life out of gear in several districts. According to the India Meteorological Department (IMD), the next three days are expected to remain extremely hot, with no significant change in maximum temperatures, followed by a slight dip thereafter. Officials have also issued a heatwave warning across multiple regions, urging residents to take precautions amid rising temperatures.

Rajnandgaon hottest spot

Rajnandgaon emerged as the hottest location in the state, recording a blistering 45.5°C on Friday. The figure marks one of the highest temperatures of the season so far, reflecting the severity of the ongoing Chhattisgarh heatwave. Other districts have also reported above-normal temperatures, contributing to widespread heat stress across the region.

IMD issues alert

The IMD has cautioned that hot and dry conditions will continue, with intermittent heatwave spells likely in several pockets. However, meteorologists have also indicated the possibility of isolated weather activity, including thunderstorms, lightning, and gusty winds reaching speeds of 40–50 kmph in some areas on April 26. Light rainfall cannot be ruled out in select regions, even as the heatwave persists simultaneously.

Raipur under heat

In the state capital Raipur, the maximum temperature is expected to hover around 45°C, while the minimum may remain near 28°C. Weather experts suggest that the city will continue to experience heatwave-like conditions, adding to discomfort for residents. The ongoing Chhattisgarh heatwave has significantly impacted daily life, with reduced outdoor activity during peak afternoon hours.

Weather variation expected

Officials attribute the rising temperatures to a combination of atmospheric conditions, including a trough extending from Vidarbha to South India and cyclonic circulation over the Bay of Bengal–Odisha region. These patterns are driving hot and dry winds over central India. Despite this, sporadic weather changes could bring temporary relief in some pockets through light rain and thunderstorms.

Anganwadi timings revised

In response to the severe heat, the state administration has revised timings for Anganwadi centres across Chhattisgarh. From April 23 to June 30, centres will operate from 7 am to 11 am, while services for children will be limited between 7 am and 9 am. The decision aims to protect children and staff from the peak impact of the Chhattisgarh heatwave. Normal timings will resume from July 1.

Health advisory issued

Health authorities have advised citizens, especially children, elderly individuals, and those with pre-existing illnesses, to avoid direct exposure to sunlight during peak hours. Increased water intake, light clothing, and limited outdoor activity have been recommended. Doctors warn that prolonged exposure to extreme heat may lead to dehydration, heat exhaustion, and other heat-related illnesses.

Outlook ahead

Meteorological officials suggest that the heatwave conditions may persist for a few more days before a marginal drop in temperature is observed. However, warm nights are also expected to continue, offering little relief after sunset.

Chhattisgarh heatwave conditions tightened their grip on the state on Friday, with Rajnandgaon recording the highest temperature at 44.5°C and the India Meteorological Department warning of a further 1–2°C rise over the next 48 hours. Raipur remains under heatwave alert, though light rain and thunderstorms may bring limited relief after two days.

Heatwave Tightens Grip

Chhattisgarh continued to reel under severe heat on Friday as maximum temperatures stayed well above normal across several districts. Rajnandgaon emerged as the hottest location in the state at 44.5°C, while Raipur was expected to touch 44°C under prevailing heatwave conditions.

According to officials, the India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued a heatwave warning for parts of central Chhattisgarh between April 25 and April 27. The department said temperatures are likely to rise by another 1–2°C over the next two days, prolonging discomfort across the region.

Rajnandgaon Hottest Spot

The highest day temperature in the state was recorded in Rajnandgaon at 44.5°C, underscoring the intensity of the current heat spell. Raipur, Durg and Bilaspur also remained among the hotter pockets, with residents facing harsh afternoon conditions and dry winds.

In contrast, Ambikapur remained relatively cooler, recording the lowest minimum temperature at 20.5°C. However, weather officials said isolated relief in northern districts is unlikely to significantly alter the broader heat pattern affecting the state.

Raipur On Alert

The IMD has flagged heatwave conditions in Raipur, where the maximum temperature is forecast to remain around 44°C, with the minimum likely to hover near 28°C. Officials said hot and dry winds during the afternoon could intensify exposure risks, especially for outdoor workers, schoolchildren and the elderly.

As per reports, district administrations have been asked to remain alert and monitor local conditions, particularly during peak afternoon hours when heat stress levels are expected to remain high.

Why Heat Is Rising

Meteorologists attributed the sharp rise in temperatures to a trough line extending from Vidarbha to southern India, along with cyclonic circulation in the upper air over the Bengal-Odisha region. This weather pattern has sustained the flow of hot and dry winds into Chhattisgarh.

According to weather experts, the combination of dry continental winds and delayed moisture intrusion has prevented any meaningful cooling, allowing daytime temperatures to climb steadily across central parts of the state.

Rain Relief After Two Days

While heatwave conditions are likely to persist in the short term, the weather department has indicated a possible shift after the next 48 hours. Some parts of Chhattisgarh may witness light rainfall, thunder activity and gusty winds reaching 30–40 kmph.

Officials said this could offer temporary relief in select districts, though isolated pockets may continue to experience heatwave conditions despite localised weather activity. The expected change is not likely to bring widespread cooling immediately.

Exam Timings Revised

The ongoing heat has also prompted administrative adjustments. In Bilaspur, Vyapam has revised the timing of upcoming competitive examinations in view of the rising temperatures.

Officials said exams that were earlier scheduled from 12 noon will now begin at 10 am. The revised schedule will apply to the Mandi Board Sub-Inspector examination on April 26, SSC Nursing and PET on May 14, and PPHT on May 21.

Public Impact Widens

The prolonged heat spell has begun affecting daily routines, public movement and examination schedules across Chhattisgarh. Health risks linked to dehydration and heat stress have also increased, particularly in urban centres and interior districts where daytime exposure remains high.

Chhattisgarh Weather Update: Chhattisgarh is expected to experience a significant rise in temperature over the coming days, with the Meteorological Department forecasting an increase of 3 to 4 degrees Celsius in maximum temperatures. The change in weather conditions is likely to become more noticeable from April 14, when several parts of the state may record temperatures above normal levels.

Major Cities Likely to Cross 42°C

According to weather experts, regions including Raipur, Bilaspur, and parts of the Durg division may witness temperatures exceeding 42 degrees Celsius. Along with the soaring mercury, certain areas could also experience heatwave conditions, prompting authorities to advise caution, especially during peak afternoon hours.

Recent Weather Conditions and Temperature Trends

In the past 24 hours, light rainfall was reported in a few parts of the state, offering temporary relief. Despite this, Durg recorded the highest temperature at 38.4 degrees Celsius, while Ambikapur remained relatively cooler with a minimum temperature of 14 degrees Celsius.

Impact of Active Trough System

Meteorologists have attributed the changing weather pattern to an active trough system extending from Odisha to the Gulf of Mannar. This system passes through southern Chhattisgarh and stretches across Vidarbha, Marathwada, Karnataka, and Tamil Nadu. Its influence is contributing to both temperature fluctuations and occasional light rainfall activity.

Dry Weather Expected Before Heat Intensifies

The weather department has predicted dry conditions across the state for the next two days. However, from April 14 onward, the intensity of heat is expected to increase further, making conditions uncomfortable in several districts.

Clear Skies in Raipur

The state capital Raipur is likely to witness clear skies on April 12. The maximum temperature is expected to hover around 39 degrees Celsius, while the minimum temperature may remain close to 25 degrees Celsius, indicating a steady warming trend.