Chhattisgarh Weather Alert: Orange Alert for 21 Districts Including Raipur, Durg and Bilaspur; Thunderstorms, Hail Likely for Two Days

Western Disturbance and trough trigger intense weather activity in Chhattisgarh, with a significant drop in temperatures and alerts issued across regions.

Storms, Hailstorms Expected in Central and Northern Chhattisgarh; Orange Alert Issued

Raipur, May 5 The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued an Orange Alert for 21 districts of Raipur-Durg and Bilaspur divisions in Chhattisgarh, forecasting thunderstorms, rain, and hailstorms over the next two days. Districts in Bastar and Surguja divisions are under a Yellow Alert, signaling the likelihood of light to moderate rainfall and gusty winds.

According to IMD, the sudden weather shift is being caused by a combination of a Western Disturbance and an active trough line, both of which are pushing moist winds into central India. These systems are expected to remain active until at least May 7, after which a gradual rise in daytime temperatures by 1–3°C is anticipated.

Sharp Drop in Temperatures Recorded Across the State

Due to overcast conditions and intermittent rain, maximum and minimum temperatures have declined across several regions:

• In Raipur, the day temperature dropped by 4°C, settling at 37.2°C, which is notably below average.

• The minimum temperature in Raipur reached 21°C, 6.3°C lower than seasonal norms.

• In Bilaspur, Sunday’s maximum temperature stood at 36.1°C, 7°C below normal, while the minimum dipped to 21.4°C.

• The Gorela-Pendra-Marwahi belt also experienced cooler weather with a maximum of 34.6°C and a minimum of 18.2°C.

• Ambikapur, in the Surguja division, reported a maximum of 33.6°C and minimum of 18.9°C, both significantly below average.

Meteorologists predict cloudy skies with intermittent sunshine and thundershowers over the next 48 hours, particularly in Raipur, where hailstorms are likely in isolated areas.

District-Wise Weather Impact and Alerts

The Orange Alert, signaling a moderate to high risk of severe weather, is applicable to the following zones across Raipur, Durg, and Bilaspur divisions:

• Thunderstorms and hail

• Wind gusts up to 60 km/h

• Risk of localized flooding and damage to standing crops

Meanwhile, a Yellow Alert has been issued for districts under Bastar and Surguja divisions, where gusty winds and light rain are expected, without hail activity. These districts include Jagdalpur, Dantewada, Kondagaon, and Ambikapur.

Agricultural and disaster response teams have been asked to remain on standby to respond to any emergency arising from hail-related crop damage or urban waterlogging.

May Rain and Thunderstorms: A Seasonal Trend

Meteorologists have emphasized that rain and thunderstorms in May are not unusual for Chhattisgarh. Historical weather data shows that May typically witnesses 1–2 strong convective systems, leading to short spells of intense rain and storm activity.

In fact, Raipur recorded its highest May rainfall in a decade in 2021, with 93.2 mm precipitation during the month. On May 10, 2021, alone, 57 mm of rain fell in a 24-hour period.

Such events are often triggered by synoptic weather systems that form early in May and are fed by moist winds from the Bay of Bengal. These systems are known to intensify towards the last week of May, often causing storm surges and abrupt weather changes across the plains.

What Residents Should Expect and Prepare For

With an active weather window ahead, the IMD and state authorities have issued advisories and recommended precautionary steps:

• Stay indoors during thunderstorms and hail activity.

• Secure loose items such as tarpaulins, hoardings, and light structures.

• Avoid sheltering under trees during lightning and strong winds.

• Farmers are advised to cover or store harvested crops to prevent hail or water damage.

• Urban areas should prepare for temporary waterlogging and traffic delays due to sudden downpours.

The Chhattisgarh State Disaster Management Authority has directed local administrations to activate emergency response teams in Orange Alert districts and coordinate closely with agricultural officers to assess crop damage and aid distribution.

Conclusion

As Chhattisgarh braces for two days of intense weather, with Raipur, Durg, and Bilaspur divisions under Orange Alert, residents and farmers are urged to remain cautious. The combination of thunderstorms, hail, and cooler temperatures has disrupted routine life and agriculture. The IMD continues to monitor developments, with more clarity expected on weather improvement post May 7.

With historical patterns suggesting that May is a month of storm-related volatility, preparedness and timely communication will be key to minimizing disruption and safeguarding lives and livelihoods.