After a brief slowdown in rainfall activity, Chhattisgarh is likely to see the monsoon become active again over the next few days, with light to moderate rain, showers and thunderstorms expected at several places. The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has forecast fairly widespread to widespread rainfall over Chhattisgarh from September 8 onward, with isolated heavy rainfall also possible during September 9–12. 

The change comes as weather systems over northern and central India influence the monsoon pattern. Thunderstorms accompanied by lightning are also possible, making caution advisable during periods of intense weather.

Rainfall activity likely to increase

The latest IMD forecast indicates that rainfall activity over Chhattisgarh is expected to increase from September 8. The department has forecast fairly widespread to widespread rainfall over the state during September 8–13, while isolated heavy rainfall is possible between September 9 and 12. 

The forecast suggests that the current break in rainfall is unlikely to persist for long. Several parts of the state may receive intermittent showers rather than continuous heavy rain.

Rajnandgaon records 33°C

Rajnandgaon recorded a maximum temperature of 33°C, making it the hottest among the locations highlighted in the state weather report.

IMD's Rajnandgaon station recorded 33°C on September 7, with no rainfall during the preceding 24-hour observation period. Its forecast for September 8 also indicates a maximum temperature of around 33°C, with a possibility of thunderstorms and lightning.

The rise in daytime temperatures comes after several days of comparatively limited rainfall activity.

Thunderstorms and lightning remain a concern

The return of rainfall could also bring thunderstorms and lightning in some areas. IMD's local forecast for Rajnandgaon specifically indicates the possibility of thunderstorms accompanied by lightning on September 8 and 9, with similar conditions continuing as rain activity increases. 

Residents are advised to avoid open areas and exposed locations during thunderstorms and to follow official weather alerts, particularly if lightning activity becomes intense.

Rainfall deficit remains at 4%

Despite renewed showers, the state's cumulative monsoon rainfall remains slightly below normal, according to the figures provided in the report.

From June 1 to September 7, Chhattisgarh had received around 950.6 mm of rainfall against a normal of approximately 990.8 mm, leaving the state around 4% below its normal seasonal rainfall.

The state-wide figure, however, masks considerable variation between districts.

Balrampur receives 70% more rain

Balrampur has recorded the highest rainfall among the districts mentioned in the report. It received around 1,436.7 mm of rain against a normal of 846.1 mm, putting the district approximately 70% above normal.

Other districts with relatively high seasonal rainfall include Sarangarh-Bilaigarh (1,105 mm), Mungeli (1,054.1 mm), Raipur (1,050.6 mm) and Baloda Bazar (967.2 mm).

The uneven distribution highlights the contrast in rainfall across different parts of Chhattisgarh despite the state's overall deficit.

Bemetara faces 41% rainfall deficit

Bemetara has recorded the lowest rainfall among the districts cited in the report, with approximately 539.9 mm against its normal rainfall of 910.5 mm.

That represents a 41% deficit.

Other districts with comparatively low rainfall include Kabirdham, which has received around 595.6 mm, Surguja at 632.3 mm, Kanker at 729.1 mm and Jashpur at 765.8 mm.

What to expect in Raipur

Raipur is also likely to experience changing weather conditions, with showers accompanied by thunder and lightningpossible.

The city's maximum temperature is expected to remain around 32°C, while the minimum could stay close to 25°C, according to the weather information cited in the report.

Overall, the next few days are likely to bring a return of monsoon activity across Chhattisgarh after the recent lull. While widespread rainfall could help reduce the seasonal deficit in some areas, the possibility of lightning and isolated heavy showers means residents should monitor updated IMD advisories.