Bhopal, Aug 2 (IANS) The southwest monsoon is poised to regain strength across Madhya Pradesh, with a fresh spell of rainfall expected to commence around August 4-5, according to the India Meteorological Department (IMD) Bhopal centre experts.
While no heavy rainfall warnings have been issued for the next 48 hours, light rain or drizzle is likely in several parts of the state over the next two days.
Following this spell of light to moderate showers, intense rainfall is anticipated from August 4-5, particularly in the northern and eastern districts. Heavy rain alerts have been issued for Chhatarpur, Panna, Satna, Maihar, Sidhi, Umaria, Shahdol and Anuppur on August 4. Similar warnings cover Niwari, Tikamgarh, Chhatarpur, Panna, Satna, Rewa and Mauganj on August 5.
Weather summary based on Sunday observation showed rainfall at many places in the Indore, Narmadapuram, Ujjain and Gwalior divisions, at a few places in Bhopal division, and at isolated locations in the Chambal, Rewa, Jabalpur, Shahdol and Sagar divisions. The rest of the state remained largely dry.
Maximum temperatures fell appreciably by up to 2.8 degrees Celsius in Ujjain division districts, while minimum temperatures showed no significant change statewide. The highest maximum temperature recorded was 36.0 degrees Celsius at Khajuraho (Chhatarpur), and the lowest minimum was 17.8 degrees Celsius at Khargone.
Gusty winds reached 50 km/h in Morena and 47 km/h in Gwalior. Thunderstorms with lightning and rain occurred in large parts of the Narmadapuram, Indore (except Khargone and Khandwa), Ujjain, Bhopal, Rewa, Shahdol and Gwalior divisions, among others.
On Saturday, intermittent rain lashed several districts including Ratlam, Bhopal and Khargone. Ratlam has already received over 13 inches of rainfall this season, filling Hanuman Tal completely. Continuous showers have swollen the Kunda waterfall in Khargone, prompting authorities to ban entry of devotees to the Sirvel Mahadev Temple. Gwalior experienced heavy afternoon rain followed by night-time drizzle.
Despite the ongoing monsoon activity, 43 districts in the state continue to report below-normal rainfall, while only 12 have recorded above-normal amounts. June rainfall was 14 per cent below normal, and July ended approximately 13 per cent deficient.
The seasonal normal for Madhya Pradesh is 37.3 inches, with major cities such as Bhopal, Indore, Jabalpur and Gwalior typically receiving 38-39 inches.
IMD officials estimate that the intensifying spell in the first week of August could help reduce the existing rainfall deficit to some extent.
Farmers have been advised to ensure proper field drainage, avoid irrigation and chemical sprays during rainy periods, protect harvested produce and livestock, and stay updated with official weather advisories.
–IANS
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