Heavy monsoon rains continued to disrupt normal life across several parts of India on Saturday, with a cloudburst triggering flash floods in Jammu and Kashmir's Kishtwar, landslides claiming six lives in Kerala, and widespread flooding forcing thousands to evacuate in Gujarat.

The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has also forecast heavy rainfall accompanied by thunderstorms in several districts of Arunachal Pradesh over the coming days.

Cloudburst Floods Houses in Kishtwar

A cloudburst in Kishtwar district of Jammu and Kashmir triggered a flash flood, inundating several houses and disrupting normal life.

As a precautionary measure, authorities ordered the closure of schools in Kishtwar, Doda and Ramban districts while emergency teams monitored the situation and assessed the damage.

Six Killed in Kerala Landslides

In Kerala, relentless rainfall lashed several southern districts, including Kochi, which recorded 361 mm of rainfall within 24 hours.

The heavy downpour triggered landslides in different parts of the state, resulting in the deaths of six people, while authorities continued rescue and relief operations in the affected areas.

Gujarat Faces Severe Flooding

Gujarat also witnessed widespread flooding following intense rainfall in districts including Surat and Morbi.

According to officials, more than 27,000 people were shifted to safer locations, while 53 others were rescued from flood-affected areas.

The highest rainfall in the state was recorded in Ambika taluka of Surat district, where 611 mm of rain fell in the last 24 hours.

Floodwaters entered residential colonies and submerged roads in several parts of Surat and Morbi, severely affecting transportation and daily life.

IMD Forecasts More Rain

The India Meteorological Department has predicted heavy rainfall and thunderstorms in several districts of Arunachal Pradesh from Sunday onward, indicating that wet conditions are likely to persist in parts of northeast India.

Tamil Nadu Offers Special Prayers for Rain

While several states grappled with excessive rainfall, parts of Tamil Nadu continued to face dry conditions and water scarcity.

Around 2,000 members of the Muslim community gathered in Thennur, Tiruchirappalli, to offer Salat al-Istisqa, a special prayer seeking rainfall.

The state has been experiencing prolonged dry weather, with temperatures exceeding 37.5°C in several districts, intensifying concerns over water availability.

The contrasting weather conditions highlight the uneven progress of the southwest monsoon across the country, with some regions struggling with floods while others continue to await adequate rainfall.

The southwest monsoon continues to remain active across Madhya Pradesh, prompting the India Meteorological Department (IMD) to issue a heavy rainfall alert for 35 districts on Saturday. The weather department has also warned that several parts of the state may witness heavy to very heavy rainfall over the next four days, while another 20 districts are likely to receive light to moderate showers.

According to IMD, Madhya Pradesh has so far recorded an average of 330.4 mm (around 13 inches) of rainfall this monsoon season, which is approximately 35% of the state's normal seasonal rainfall quota. Although rainfall remains below the seasonal average, the deficit has narrowed significantly following widespread showers over the past few days.

Moisture From Arabian Sea and Bay of Bengal Strengthens Monsoon

Meteorologists said the southwest monsoon is fully active across the state due to a combination of favorable weather systems. Continuous moisture inflow from both the Arabian Sea and the Bay of Bengal, along with the monsoon trough passing through Madhya Pradesh, has increased humidity levels to 80–95% in many regions.

According to weather experts, these conditions are creating an ideal environment for widespread rainfall, with isolated areas likely to experience intense downpours over the coming days.

35 Districts Under Heavy Rain Alert

The IMD has issued a heavy rainfall alert for the following districts:

• Bhopal
• Raisen
• Sehore
• Rajgarh
• Vidisha
• Indore
• Jhabua
• Alirajpur
• Dhar
• Burhanpur
• Barwani
• Khandwa
• Khargone
• Ujjain
• Neemuch
• Mandsaur
• Ratlam
• Agar Malwa
• Shajapur
• Dewas
• Narmadapuram
• Betul
• Harda
• Gwalior
• Sheopur
• Morena
• Bhind
• Datia
• Shivpuri
• Guna
• Ashoknagar
• Jabalpur
• Katni
• Narsinghpur
• Chhindwara

Meanwhile, districts including Pandhurna, Seoni, Balaghat, Mandla, Dindori, Rewa, Satna, Sidhi, Singrauli, Mauganj, Maihar, Shahdol, Umaria, Anuppur, Sagar, Panna, Damoh, Chhatarpur, Tikamgarh, and Niwari are expected to receive light to moderate rainfall, with isolated spells of heavy showers.

Rainfall Deficit Narrows After Four Days of Showers

The recent spell of widespread rainfall has improved the state's seasonal rainfall statistics. Until July 20, Madhya Pradesh was facing a rainfall deficit of 17%, but continuous showers over the past four days have reduced the deficit to 11%.

At present, the state has recorded 330.4 mm of rainfall against the normal average of 370.9 mm expected by this time of the monsoon season.

Meteorologists say continued rainfall over the next few days could further reduce the deficit if the current weather pattern persists.

Dewas Leads in Seasonal Rainfall

Rainfall has been above normal in 14 districts, including Dewas, Bhopal, Indore, Sehore, Rajgarh, Harda, Burhanpur, Neemuch, Agar Malwa, Bhind, and Mandsaur.

Among them, Dewas has recorded the highest rainfall so far, receiving nearly 19.6 inches this season. However, despite recent improvements, 41 districts continue to report below-normal rainfall.

Flooding and Waterlogging Risk Remains High

The IMD has cautioned that continuous rainfall may result in waterlogging in low-lying areas, rising water levels in rivers and streams, and localized flood-like situations.

Residents have been advised to:

• Avoid unnecessary travel during heavy rainfall.
• Stay away from overflowing rivers and drains.
• Follow weather advisories issued by local authorities.
• Drive cautiously on waterlogged roads.
• Keep emergency supplies and essential medicines ready if living in flood-prone areas.

Historical Rainfall Records Highlight Monsoon Intensity

Madhya Pradesh has witnessed several remarkable rainfall events over the years.

• Indore recorded its highest 24-hour rainfall of 11.5 inches on July 27, 1913, while July 1973 remains its wettest month with over 30 inches of rainfall.
• Bhopal witnessed nearly 41 inches of rainfall in July 1986, with a one-day record of 11 inches on July 22, 1973.
• Jabalpur holds one of the state's highest monthly rainfall records, receiving nearly 45 inches in July 1930, while recording 13.5 inches in just 24 hours on July 30, 1915.
• Compared to other major cities, Gwalior typically records lower rainfall, averaging around 9 inches in July.
• Ujjain also experiences substantial rainfall during July, receiving nearly 40% of its annual monsoon rainfall during the month.

With the monsoon expected to remain active over the next several days, weather officials have urged residents to stay informed through official forecasts and take necessary precautions in areas vulnerable to flooding.

India's active southwest monsoon continued to unleash widespread disruption on Tuesday, triggering landslides, flash floods and severe waterlogging across several states. Kerala, Maharashtra, Jammu & Kashmir, Gujarat, Rajasthan, Madhya Pradesh and Uttar Pradesh were among the worst-affected regions as heavy rainfall impacted transport, education and daily life.

In Kerala, six workers were injured after a landslide struck the Anakkompoyil–Meppadi tunnel project site in Wayanad district. The injured were shifted to a nearby hospital, while rescue and relief teams remained deployed at the location. Authorities continued to monitor the area amid concerns over further rainfall.

Kerala Forest Minister A.K. Saseendran described the incident as a "man-made landslide", suggesting that excavation activities at the tunnel construction site may have contributed to the collapse. Officials have begun assessing the circumstances surrounding the incident.

Mumbai Receives Nearly 380 mm Rain

Maharashtra witnessed one of its heaviest spells of monsoon rainfall this season, with Mumbai recording nearly 380 mm (15 inches) of rainfall over the past 48 hours. The India Meteorological Department (IMD) issued an Orange Alert for the city, warning of continued heavy to very heavy rainfall.

As a precautionary measure, authorities declared a holiday for all government and private schools and colleges in Mumbai on Tuesday. Similar closures were announced in Nashik, where persistent rainfall disrupted normal life.

The downpour caused extensive waterlogging in several parts of Mumbai, including Vasai-Virar and Nalasopara, affecting roads, residential societies and commercial establishments. Rising water levels were also reported in the Godavari River in Nashik, while the Bhima River crossed the danger mark near Daund.

The Thane district administration prohibited tourists from visiting waterfalls, forts, rivers, dams and lakes until further orders due to the risk of landslides and flash floods.

Cloudburst Triggers Flooding in Jammu & Kashmir

A cloudburst in the upper reaches of Doda district in Jammu & Kashmir sent mud, rocks and debris rushing into residential areas, disrupting road connectivity and damaging vehicles.

Visuals from Thathri town showed floodwaters carrying large quantities of debris through streets, leaving several vehicles stranded. Local authorities have launched damage assessment operations while monitoring vulnerable areas for further rainfall.

Nearby Kishtwar district also witnessed flooding and mudslides, affecting transportation and normal movement.

Heavy Rain Continues Across States

The active monsoon system continued to bring widespread rainfall across western, central and northern India.

In Gujarat, multiple weather systems remained active simultaneously, resulting in heavy to extremely heavy rainfall across South Gujarat and parts of Saurashtra. Several agricultural fields in Junagadh district were submerged after continuous rain.

Rajasthan also remained under the influence of an active monsoon system, prompting the IMD to issue an Orange Alert for seven districts and Yellow Alerts across most remaining parts of the state.

Madhya Pradesh continued to receive widespread rainfall for the sixth consecutive day. According to weather officials, the state's average rainfall has now reached nearly seven inches, reducing the seasonal rainfall deficit to just one per cent after a delayed start to the monsoon.

In Uttar Pradesh, heavy showers were reported in Chandauli, while Lucknow, Varanasi and several eastern districts experienced intermittent rainfall under cloudy skies.

Weather Alerts Remain in Force

The IMD has warned that active monsoon conditions are likely to persist over several parts of the country over the next two days.

Heavy to very heavy rainfall has been forecast for parts of Himachal Pradesh, Odisha, Andhra Pradesh, Jharkhand, Assam, Meghalaya, West Bengal and Sikkim. Authorities across multiple states have advised residents to avoid flood-prone areas, remain cautious near rivers and landslide-prone zones, and follow official weather advisories.

With rivers rising, transport disrupted and rescue teams on alert in multiple regions, officials continue to closely monitor the evolving weather situation as the monsoon maintains its intense pace across India.

The southwest monsoon, which made an early onset over Kerala on June 4, has remained virtually stuck for the past seven days, hovering over parts of Tamil Nadu, Maharashtra and West Bengal. Meteorologists say conditions are turning favourable for a fresh advance, with the system likely to cover remaining areas of Maharashtra, Telangana and Andhra Pradesh in the coming days.

While the main monsoon current has been sluggish, pre-monsoon rains and thunderstorms have lashed large parts of the country, bringing both relief from the heat and tragic losses in several states. The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued a heavy rainfall alert for as many as 22 states and Union Territories.

 Three Dead in UP Weather Incidents

In Uttar Pradesh, strong winds and rain claimed three lives in separate incidents on Thursday. In Chitrakoot, the roof of a newly built ₹4.5 crore auditorium was blown away by powerful gusts. Authorities reported damage to trees, tin sheds and boundary walls in several districts including Etawah, Sitapur and Firozabad.

Local officials said rescue and relief teams have been deployed in the affected areas. Power supply was also disrupted in many places due to fallen trees and poles.

 Child Killed in Punjab Dust Storm

Punjab too witnessed tragedy when a nine-year-old child died in Mansa after an iron gate collapsed on him during a strong dust storm. Several other parts of the state reported minor injuries and property damage from the squall.

In Rajasthan, strong winds affected normal life while two flights were diverted from Delhi due to poor visibility and adverse weather. Markets in smaller towns wore a deserted look as people stayed indoors during the evening hours.

 Heavy Rain Alert Across 22 States

According to the IMD, a yellow alert for rainfall has been sounded across almost the entire country, with Gujarat remaining the only exception. States including Rajasthan, Madhya Pradesh, Uttar Pradesh, Bihar, Jharkhand, Odisha, West Bengal, and those in the northeast are expected to receive widespread showers in the next two days.

Heavy rainfall is likely in coastal districts of Kerala and Karnataka. Thunderstorms accompanied by strong winds reaching 50-70 kmph are forecast over Delhi, Punjab, Haryana and western Uttar Pradesh on June 12 and 13. Hailstorms may also occur in parts of western UP, Punjab, Haryana, Uttarakhand and Jammu and Kashmir.

 Lingering Heat Despite Rains

Despite the monsoon-related activity, day temperatures continued to soar above 40°C in eight states. Bathinda in Punjab recorded the highest temperature in the country at 46.2°C on Thursday. Other high readings included 45.9°C in Sri Ganganagar, 45.5°C in Brahmapuri and 45.4°C in Banda.

Meteorologists noted that such contrast between heavy local rains and extreme heat in neighbouring areas is not uncommon during the transition phase of the monsoon.

 Monsoon Progress So Far

The southwest monsoon entered the country through Kerala and quickly advanced into parts of Tamil Nadu, Karnataka, Maharashtra and the northeast by June 6. However, its further northward push has been stalled over Chennai, Harnai in Maharashtra and Siliguri in West Bengal for nearly a week.

Sources familiar with the weather patterns said favourable atmospheric conditions are building up and the monsoon is expected to gain momentum soon. Once it advances, it is likely to cover most of central and northern India in the coming weeks.

 Ground Reality and Public Impact

In Bihar, continuous rain has left many low-lying areas waterlogged, affecting daily commuters and farmers preparing for the kharif season. In Madhya Pradesh and Rajasthan, farmers welcomed the showers but also worried about damage to standing crops from strong winds and hail.

Delhi and surrounding areas saw intermittent rain and thunderstorms, bringing some respite from the scorching heat but also causing traffic snarls during the evening peak hours.

Officials have advised people to avoid venturing out during thunderstorms and to stay away from open fields and water bodies. Farmers have been asked to secure their livestock and newly transplanted paddy.

 Outlook for Next Few Days

The IMD has forecast continued thunderstorm activity over large parts of north and central India on June 12 and 13. Heavy spells are expected in Bihar, Jharkhand and parts of Odisha. Isolated hailstorms may hit Madhya Pradesh and Vidarbha region.

As the monsoon finally gathers pace, experts are watching closely to see whether the stalled system can make up for the lost time. Timely and well-distributed rainfall is crucial for agriculture across the rain-fed regions of the country.

For now, the focus remains on managing the immediate impact of pre-monsoon fury while preparing for the full arrival of the seasonal rains.