Continuous rainfall across Chhattisgarh has claimed three lives in separate weather-related incidents, even as the India Meteorological Department (IMD) forecast widespread rainfall across the state over the next four days. Two young sisters were killed after the wall of an old mud house collapsed in Bemetara district, while an 18-year-old youth lost his life in a lightning strike in Sukma.

According to the Meteorological Centre, the southwest monsoon is advancing steadily and is expected to cover the remaining parts of Chhattisgarh within the next two to three days. Heavy rainfall accompanied by thunderstorms and lightning is likely in several districts during this period.

The most tragic incident occurred in Raurpur village of Bemetara district, where an old mud wall collapsed following overnight rainfall. The wall fell on two sisters, Vanshika Kosle (12) and Radhika Kosle (9), who were playing in the courtyard of their house on Sunday morning. Both girls sustained severe head injuries and were rushed for medical assistance, but doctors declared them dead. A woman was also injured in the accident.

Family members said the house owner, Chandraprakash Kosle, had recently shifted to a newly constructed home. However, the old mud structure had not been demolished, and continuous rainfall weakened the wall, eventually leading to the fatal collapse.

In another weather-related tragedy, lightning struck a group of young men in Kukanar village of Sukma district. The victims had reportedly taken shelter under a tamarind tree after finishing work in the fields when a thunderstorm developed on Sunday afternoon.

The lightning strike injured five people. Eighteen-year-old Ajay Nag succumbed to his injuries while being taken to hospital, while the remaining four victims are undergoing treatment. Local authorities have appealed to residents to avoid taking shelter beneath trees or remaining in open fields during thunderstorms.

The IMD has forecast light to moderate rainfall across most parts of Chhattisgarh on Monday, with isolated areas likely to witness heavy showers accompanied by thunder and lightning. In Raipur, cloudy skies and intermittent rainfall are expected, with temperatures likely to range between 27°C and 38°C.

The monsoon has already covered more than 18 districts, including Raipur, Durg, Dhamtari, Gariaband, Mahasamund, Balodabazar, Bemetara, Kabirdham, Rajnandgaon, Kanker, Kondagaon, Narayanpur, Bastar, Dantewada, Sukma and Bijapur. The remaining districts, including Bilaspur, Korba, Jashpur, Surguja, Janjgir-Champa, Raigarh and Mungeli, are expected to receive the official monsoon onset within the next 48 hours.

Despite the arrival of monsoon, rainfall across the state continues to remain significantly below normal. Rajnandgaon has recorded one of the sharpest deficits, receiving only 8.3 mm of rainfall against the seasonal normal of 100.3 mm, representing a 92 percent shortfall. Mohla-Manpur-Ambagarh Chowki has reported a 95 percent rainfall deficit, while Balodabazar and Sakti have recorded deficits exceeding 80 percent.

Central Chhattisgarh remains among the worst-affected regions in terms of rainfall deficiency. Raipur has received only 25.3 mm against the normal 90.1 mm, while Durg, Dhamtari and Mahasamund have also recorded substantially below-normal precipitation.

The weather department has advised residents to remain alert during thunderstorms, avoid unsafe structures, and strictly follow lightning safety guidelines as rainfall activity intensifies across the state over the coming days.

Mumbai finally witnessed a spell of meaningful rainfall on Sunday morning as the southwest monsoon showed signs of regaining strength after remaining largely stagnant for nearly two weeks. The showers brought much-needed relief to residents who had been enduring high temperatures and persistent humidity over the past several days.

According to the India Meteorological Department (IMD), favourable atmospheric conditions are developing for the monsoon to advance further across parts of western, central and eastern India around June 23. The monsoon had reached South Konkan earlier this month but has remained stalled near Solapur since June 8, slowing its progress into several regions that typically receive seasonal rainfall by this time.

Weather experts attribute Mumbai's latest rainfall to increased cloud formation over the Western Ghats. Moisture-laden winds from the Arabian Sea rise along the mountain range, cool at higher altitudes and form dense rain-bearing clouds. These cloud systems are then pushed towards Mumbai by upper-level winds, resulting in rainfall across the city and adjoining areas.

The revival of monsoon activity comes at a time when large parts of the country continue to experience intense heat. Despite scattered pre-monsoon showers in several states, temperatures crossed the 40-degree Celsius mark in at least eight states on Saturday.

Banda in Uttar Pradesh emerged as the hottest location in the country, recording a maximum temperature of 44.2 degrees Celsius. Delhi also continued to experience hot conditions, with the mercury touching 40 degrees Celsius.

Meteorologists say the temporary slowdown in monsoon advancement had extended the wait for rain in several regions. While the western branch of the monsoon has remained stationary since June 8, the eastern branch has shown limited movement since June 12. This pause affected rainfall distribution across multiple states and raised concerns among farmers awaiting seasonal precipitation for sowing activities.

However, recent satellite observations and weather models indicate a gradual increase in cloud activity over central and eastern India. The IMD has noted that atmospheric conditions are becoming more favourable for monsoon progression, suggesting that the seasonal system could begin advancing once again over the coming days.

Around June 23, the monsoon is expected to move into additional parts of Maharashtra, Telangana, Odisha, Jharkhand, Bihar and Chhattisgarh. Increased rainfall activity is also likely to be observed in adjoining regions as the system strengthens.

For central India, the forecast offers encouraging signs. Between June 21 and June 26, Madhya Pradesh, Vidarbha and Chhattisgarh are expected to receive rainfall under the influence of strengthening monsoon currents and associated weather systems. Cloud cover has already started increasing over many of these areas, pointing to a more active weather phase ahead.

The expected advancement of the monsoon is particularly significant for the agriculture sector, as several regions have been awaiting adequate rainfall to begin large-scale sowing operations. A timely revival could improve soil moisture levels and support the upcoming kharif season.

With weather conditions evolving rapidly, the IMD is continuing to monitor monsoon movement across the country. Further updates are expected in the coming days as the seasonal rainfall system resumes its northward and eastward advance.

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.

Heavy pre-monsoon rain in Shahdol brought respite from soaring temperatures, but widespread waterlogging highlighted shortcomings in the city's drainage system.

Shahdol witnessed a significant weather change on Tuesday afternoon as heavy rain accompanied by strong winds brought much-needed relief from intense heat and humidity across the district. The downpour, which lasted for nearly half an hour in several areas, led to a noticeable drop in temperature and improved weather conditions after days of uncomfortable summer heat.

Residents across the district welcomed the rainfall, which arrived amid rising temperatures and persistent humidity. The showers cooled the atmosphere and offered temporary respite to people who had been struggling with oppressive weather conditions over the past few weeks.

Relief From Summer Heat

The sudden spell of rain transformed weather conditions across Shahdol and surrounding areas. Streets that had been baking under high temperatures earlier in the day experienced cooler conditions by late afternoon as clouds and rain dominated the skyline.

Local residents reported a sharp improvement in comfort levels after the rainfall. Strong winds preceding the showers further helped bring down temperatures, making outdoor conditions significantly more pleasant.

Farmers Receive Timely Support

Beyond urban areas, the rainfall proved beneficial for farmers preparing their fields for the upcoming kharif season. Several villages across the district received adequate rainfall, providing essential soil moisture ahead of sowing activities.

Farmers said the rain could help reduce dependence on early irrigation and create favourable conditions for crops such as paddy and other kharif varieties. Agricultural activities in many parts of the district are expected to gain momentum if similar weather conditions continue over the coming weeks.

The rainfall is being viewed as an encouraging sign ahead of the monsoon season, particularly for farming communities that rely heavily on timely precipitation for crop planning.

Waterlogging Hits City Areas

While the rain brought relief, it also exposed persistent civic infrastructure challenges within Shahdol city. Several roads, intersections and residential colonies reported waterlogging soon after the downpour.

Residents faced difficulties commuting as rainwater accumulated on major stretches. In many locations, clogged or poorly maintained drains prevented the quick discharge of water, causing temporary disruptions to traffic movement and pedestrian access.

The situation renewed concerns about urban drainage preparedness, especially with the monsoon season approaching. Local residents pointed to recurring waterlogging issues during heavy rainfall events and called for improved maintenance of drainage networks.

Pre-Monsoon Activity Underway

According to weather experts, the rainfall was part of ongoing pre-monsoon activity affecting several regions of Madhya Pradesh. Moisture-laden winds from the Bay of Bengal, combined with favourable local atmospheric conditions, have been triggering thunderstorms and rain in parts of the state.

Meteorologists expect such weather patterns to continue intermittently in the coming days as the southwest monsoon progresses towards central India.

Monsoon Arrival Expected Soon

Weather officials indicate that the southwest monsoon is likely to reach Madhya Pradesh within the next two to three weeks. Shahdol and neighbouring districts generally receive the monsoon by the third week of June.

The current spell of rain is being seen as a precursor to the larger seasonal transition. Farmers and residents alike are closely monitoring weather developments, hoping for a timely and well-distributed monsoon.

Rainfall Outlook For District

Shahdol typically records around 1,000 millimetres of annual rainfall. Last year, the district received rainfall close to normal levels, benefiting agricultural production during the kharif season.

With pre-monsoon showers already making an appearance, expectations remain high for another productive monsoon period. However, Tuesday's rainfall also served as an early reminder of the civic challenges that local authorities may need to address before the arrival of sustained seasonal rains.

Meteorological department warns of thunder, heavy winds across state; Korba tree-fall kills three, Raipur likely to see 41°C daytime high

Relief from the recent heatwave was short-lived as the State Meteorological Department on Sunday forecast thunder, lightning, heavy winds and localized rain over the next five days, with gusts likely reaching 50–60 kilometres per hour in parts of the state. The warning comes a day after a sudden storm in Korba’s Pali police station area caused a fatal tree collapse that killed three youths.

What happened in Korba
Saturday evening’s storm struck without much lead time, sending people rushing for cover. According to local police and hospital sources, three young men who took shelter under a large roadside tree in Pali were fatally injured when a heavy branch snapped and fell on them. Initial reports say the men were pronounced dead at the scene; their identities are being verified and an inquest has been ordered, officials said.

Other local impacts
Across the state, showers and gusty winds were reported in Raipur, Sarguja and Pendra. In Pendra, authorities reported that strong winds tore off a tin shed and uprooted at least one tree. No casualties were reported from those incidents. Meteorological data for the past 24 hours showed Durg recorded the highest daytime temperature at 42.6°C, while Pendra Road logged a minimum of 24.2°C.

What the forecast says
The meteorological department issued a fresh advisory early Sunday, warning of thunder, lightning, heavy winds and isolated heavy rainfall over various districts through the coming five days. Officials said two trough systems — one extending from central Pakistan to the Andhra coast and another active in the upper levels from the Bay of Bengal to the Lakshadweep region — are pumping moisture into the region and destabilising the atmosphere.

“Due to these systems, we expect convective activity across Chhattisgarh. Wind gusts of 50–60 km/h are possible at isolated places, along with lightning and scattered heavy showers,” a state meteorological official told reporters. The forecast specifically named Raipur, Durg, Korba, Sarguja and adjacent districts as areas likely to be affected.

Local advisory and safety tips
State authorities urged people to avoid standing under trees, stay away from power poles and open fields during storms, and secure loose objects that can be blown away by strong winds. The department also advised farmers to protect standing crops and fishermen to avoid venturing into seas or large reservoirs until advisories are lifted.

Raipur outlook
For the state capital, forecasters expect the sky to remain partly to mostly cloudy on Sunday with chances of thunder, dust squalls or brief heavy rain during the day. Raipur’s daytime temperature is likely to hover around 41°C, with a minimum near 28°C, offering modest relief from the more extreme highs recorded earlier in the week.

Wider context
Weather officials said daytime temperatures across the state have already fallen by 2–3 degrees Celsius in the last 24 hours, and another 2–3 degree drop is possible over the next two days as convective activity continues. However, they cautioned that the accompanying winds and lightning will pose hazards, especially where infrastructure is vulnerable.

Ground reaction
Residents in low-lying and open areas reported sudden changes in wind direction and rapid cloud build-up on Saturday evening. “The sky darkened within minutes and the wind hit so hard that sheets of the temporary market stalls started flapping,” said one trader in Pendra, who declined to be named. Local civic bodies said they are on alert and monitoring vulnerable trees and electricity lines.

What’s next
Authorities said district administrations have been asked to keep disaster response teams on standby and to coordinate with power and road departments for quick restoration work if needed. The meteorological department will review the situation daily and issue updates; people are being asked to follow local alerts and exercise caution during outdoor activities.

Weather Update: Rain lashes several parts of Madhya Pradesh, relief from heat

A sudden shift in weather patterns has brought widespread rainfall and gusty winds to several districts of Madhya Pradesh, including Dhar, Barwani, and Jhabua, early Tuesday morning. The change in atmospheric conditions has led to a significant dip in mercury, providing much-needed respite to citizens who had been reeling under a severe heatwave.

The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued a yellow alert for 39 districts across the state, warning of thunderstorms and lightning. According to the Bhopal Meteorological Centre, winds are expected to clock speeds between 40 and 60 kmph in affected areas. This unsettled weather activity is forecasted to persist until May 8.

Regional rainfall and temperature dip

The southern and western belts of the state witnessed a sharp turnaround on Tuesday. In Dhar district, heavy showers lasted for nearly 20 minutes in areas like Kukshi and Tanda. Local residents reported a dramatic cooling effect as temperatures, which were hovering around 43°C last week, plummeted to approximately 23°C during the rain.

Similar reports emerged from Barwani, where consistent rainfall since 10:00 AM resulted in a 3-degree Celsius drop in the local temperature. Meanwhile, Gwalior and parts of the Rajgarh-Barmandal area experienced light drizzles and overcast skies, which significantly lowered the humidity-driven discomfort.

Cyclonic circulation triggers activity

Meteorologists attribute this pre-monsoon activity to a combination of multiple weather systems. "A cyclonic circulation is currently active over the region, and two trough lines are passing in close proximity," an official from the IMD stated. This convergence of moisture-laden winds has created unstable conditions, leading to hailstorms in isolated pockets on Monday and heavy rain on Tuesday.

The high-velocity winds are expected to be most intense in the eastern parts of the state, specifically in Jabalpur, Rewa, and Shahdol divisions. Local authorities have advised people to stay indoors during thunder activity to avoid risks associated with lightning strikes.

Impact on agricultural procurement

While the rain has brought down temperatures, it has triggered concerns for the farming community. In Jhabua, the sudden downpour caught farmers at wheat procurement centers off guard. Large quantities of harvested grain kept in the open at these centers are at risk of getting soaked.

Farmers at several centers expressed frustration over the lack of adequate tarpaulins and storage facilities. "We are rushing to cover the produce, but the wind is making it difficult. If the grain gets damp, it will be rejected at the procurement gates," a local farmer in Jhabua said. District administrations have since been alerted to expedite the movement of grain to warehouses.

Forecast for the week

The weather department indicates that the spell is far from over. Showers are likely to continue in Bhopal, Indore, Ujjain, and Jabalpur divisions over the next 48 hours. Districts such as Chhindwara, Seoni, and Balaghat are also expected to see lightning and moderate rainfall.

As the state braces for more turbulence, the IMD has urged commuters to be cautious of falling trees or branches due to the high-speed winds. The current system is expected to weaken gradually after May 8, after which temperatures may begin to climb again.