Raipur: The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued a yellow alert across all districts of Chhattisgarh for the next three days. The warning includes thunderstorms, lightning, and gusty winds ranging from 40 to 50 km/h. Districts in the Bastar and Surguja regions are likely to be most affected, with heavy lightning activity expected. In central Chhattisgarh, including Raipur and Durg, sudden showers and strong winds may disrupt normal routines.
On Sunday, Durg recorded the highest temperature in the state at 38.6°C, while Raipur registered a cooler 37°C due to early morning rainfall. The overall state temperatures have dipped by up to 5 degrees below normal due to a western disturbance affecting the region.
Cyclonic Activity Behind Weather Change
According to the IMD office in Raipur, a cyclonic circulation combined with a trough line over the region has led to unstable atmospheric conditions. These weather systems are causing widespread cloud cover, sporadic rain, and thunderstorms across the state.
Weather scientist Gayatri Vani Kantibhutla confirmed that the weather will remain unstable for the next three days. “Lightning, thundershowers, and gusty winds up to 50 km/h are likely in several districts. The impact will be more pronounced in Bastar and Surguja divisions, while Raipur may also experience brief but intense spells,” she said.
Impact in Major Cities
In Raipur, the temperature dropped to 37°C on Sunday — 5.1°C below average. Early morning rains, caused by moisture-laden winds from the sea, brought a welcome break from the heat. However, the combination of humidity and patchy sunshine led to a slightly muggy afternoon.
In Durg, where no significant rainfall occurred, the maximum temperature touched 38.6°C, making it the warmest district of the day. Still, even here, gusty winds and a light drizzle were reported during the morning hours. The minimum temperature in Durg was recorded at 24.4°C — nearly 4°C below normal.
Extended Weather Outlook
The IMD has warned that similar weather conditions will persist for at least four more days in Chhattisgarh. Wind speeds may increase to 50–60 km/h in some areas initially, before easing to around 40–50 km/h. Sporadic rains and thunderstorms will continue to affect day-to-day life and travel plans.
What is a Western Disturbance?
Western disturbances are low-pressure storm systems originating over the Mediterranean and Caspian Seas. As they move eastwards through Iran, Iraq, Afghanistan, and Pakistan, they eventually reach India’s northwestern regions. These systems are known for bringing sudden rains, snowfall, and cooler temperatures to large parts of the Indian subcontinent, including Chhattisgarh.
Not Unusual for May
Rain and squalls during May are not a new phenomenon in Chhattisgarh. Historical weather trends indicate that strong winds and rainfall often occur in early and late May due to the buildup of seasonal systems. For instance, May 2021 saw the highest rainfall in Raipur in the last decade, recording 93.2 mm in total, with 57 mm falling on a single day — May 10.
The recurring interaction between sea winds and local heat triggers the formation of thunderstorms. These patterns are most prominent after May 25, often leading to a change in weather and signaling the pre-monsoon phase.
Bhupendra Singh Chundawat is a seasoned technology journalist with over 22 years of experience in the media industry. He specializes in covering the global technology landscape, with a deep focus on manufacturing trends and the geopolitical impact on tech companies. Currently serving as the Editor at Udaipur Kiran, his insights are shaped by decades of hands-on reporting and editorial leadership in the fast-evolving world of technology.