IMD issues alert for thunderstorms and gusty winds across the state over next five days, while a female bear succumbs to extreme heat in Marwahi forest.

The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued a five-day alert for thunderstorms, lightning and gusty winds across Chhattisgarh, even as a female bear died due to heatstroke in Marwahi forest division, officials said on Tuesday.

The weather system is expected to bring relief from scorching temperatures in many parts, but only after a brief warming spell. Officials said no major change in mercury levels is likely over the next 24 hours, after which maximum temperatures may rise by 1 to 2 degrees Celsius.

 Five-Day Warning Issued

According to the IMD’s regional bulletin, different districts of Chhattisgarh will witness rain accompanied by gusty winds and thunder over the next five days. The alert covers several parts, including Raipur, Bilaspur, and Bastar regions.

Local authorities have advised residents to remain cautious while stepping out, especially during late afternoon and evening hours when squall activity is most likely.

 Temperature Rise Ahead

Despite the rain forecast, heat will not fully retreat. After 24 hours, day temperatures are projected to inch up again. On Monday, the state’s highest temperature of 42 degrees Celsius was recorded in Rajnandgaon, while the lowest minimum of 20.4°C was logged at Pendra Road.

Officials said the combination of heat and humidity in some areas could make conditions uncomfortable even after the rainfall.

Recent Rainfall Across State

In the past 24 hours, several parts recorded light to moderate showers. Gariaband district saw the highest rainfall at 30 mm, followed by Sukma and Ramanujnagar in Surajpur district with 20 mm each. Tokapal and Jagdalpur in Bastar also received some precipitation.

Pendra had experienced a dust storm and rain two days ago, according to local residents.

Bear Death Confirmed

Extreme heat has also taken a toll on wildlife. A female bear died due to sunstroke and heat stress in a forest near Piparia village under Marwahi forest division.

“The bear succumbed to heat-related complications. Our team reached the spot after villagers alerted us,” said Marwahi DFO Grishma Chand, confirming the death. Forest officials have ordered a basic health check of other animals in the vicinity.

Incidents of heat-induced wildlife deaths have been reported sporadically across central India this summer, though they remain relatively rare.

Raipur’s Forecast

For the state capital, the IMD has predicted a cloudy sky with a possibility of rain, thunder or a dust storm later in the day. Maximum temperature is expected to hover around 40°C, while the minimum could settle near 27°C.

The meteorological department has not ruled out isolated intense spells in some districts over the next 48 hours. Officials said they are monitoring the development of any squall lines that could cause localised damage.

Authorities have also urged farmers to postpone any pesticide spraying or outdoor agricultural work until the weather stabilises. Meanwhile, wildlife officials have stepped up patrols in forested areas to check for any more distress signs among animals due to prolonged heat.

Chhattisgarh Braces for 5-Day Rough Weather

Weather systems from Rajasthan to Bengal are set to disrupt Chhattisgarh's skies for the next five days, with gusts up to 40 kmph and lightning risks. Local forecasts warn of thunderstorms easing slightly after today but lingering in patches across the state.

Recent Storms Hit Hard

Saturday evening brought sudden relief to parched districts. Raipur, Bilaspur, Durg, and Ambikapur saw sharp winds whip up dust before rains lashed down. Initial reports indicate these outbursts caught many off guard, with streets in Bhilai flooding briefly amid the downpour.

Residents in Ambikapur described the scene as chaotic—strong gales bending trees, followed by heavy sheets of water. No major damage reported yet, but power flickered in spots.

Systems Driving the Change

A trough line stretching from Rajasthan to Bengal, coupled with an active cyclonic circulation from Bihar to Andhra Pradesh, is fueling this spell. According to officials at the local meteorological department, these patterns are pulling moisture inland, spawning clouds, thunder, and blustery evenings.

It's not the peak monsoon yet, but the setup mimics early seasonal stirrings. Ground-level cues from rural pockets show farmers pausing fieldwork, wary of more surprises.

Winds and Lightning Alert

Next 24 hours look dicey. Provinces-wide, expect winds at 30-40 kmph tearing through isolated areas, alongside lightning threats. The department issued warnings this morning—stay indoors during peak hours, avoid open fields.

Today's storms, though intense, mark the high point. Activity should taper off post-May 11, shifting to lighter showers over five days.

Temperature Steady, Heat Looms

Past day saw no big swings in mercury. Durg topped at 39°C, while Pendraroad dipped to a cool 19.2°C. Officials note maximums holding firm, but expect a 2-4°C creep upward soon—pushing heat back into focus once clouds thin.

Raipur itself faces a cloudy afternoon or evening. Max around 40°C, min near 24°C. Relief short-lived, it seems.

5-Day Outlook Mixed

Scattered districts brace for thunder, light rain through the weekend. Some spots may dodge it, but gusts and lightning odds persist at 30-40 kmph. Thunderstorm vigor drops gradually, per met forecasts.

Rural Chhattisgarh feels it most—crops vulnerable to hail or wind snaps. Urban pockets like Bhilai already saw outages; power teams on standby.

Public Impact Grows

This comes amid rising summer demands—water scarcity biting harder. Sudden rains ease reservoirs a tad, but erratic weather disrupts daily commutes, outdoor labor. Local authorities urge caution: secure loose items, monitor kids near waterlogged spots.

No widespread alerts beyond routine advisories. Still, vigilance key as patterns evolve.

Forward, drier heat likely returns by mid-week if systems weaken. Met department watching closely—updates expected by evening. For now, Chhattisgarh navigates this moody patch, balancing relief against risks.