Storms & rain hit 40 Madhya Pradesh districts, rain likely until May 31

Madhya Pradesh is facing unseasonal storms and rain during a period that usually brings peak summer heat. On the third day of Nautapa, more than 15 districts, including Bhopal, Ujjain, and Chhindwara, saw rainfall and thunderstorms.

The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued alerts for 40 districts, warning of heavy rain and strong winds up to 50 km/h. Areas under alert include major cities like Bhopal, Indore, and Ujjain, along with districts across eastern, central, and western Madhya Pradesh.

Traditionally, the last week of May is known for intense heat. But this year, rain has replaced high temperatures. On Tuesday, Bhopal recorded 40.2°C before the storm brought relief. Indore saw 35.6°C, Ujjain 37.7°C, and Jabalpur 38.5°C.

In contrast, Tikamgarh recorded the highest temperature at 41.5°C. Chhindwara was the coolest, with 34°C. Other cooler regions included Betul, Dhar, and Pachmarhi.

Meteorologists attribute this shift to two active cyclonic systems and a trough passing through the state. Dr. Divya E. Surendran, a senior meteorologist, said this setup is bringing continued rain and storms. The state can expect similar weather until May 31.

Rainfall has been consistent throughout May. For 27 days, at least one district has received rain. This follows a similar pattern from April 26, when weather disturbances first began. Hailstorms have also hit several areas.

Last year on May 27, Prithvipur in Niwari touched 48.7°C. Temperatures above 40°C were recorded in 39 cities, with several crossing 47°C. Cities like Datia, Guna, and Khajuraho experienced extreme heat. In contrast, this year’s Nautapa has been mild so far due to continuous rainfall.

Meteorologists expect the heat to return once the current rainy spell ends. Areas like Gwalior, Tikamgarh, and Chhatarpur may see temperatures rise above 45°C by the end of May. Some places, including Khajuraho and Naugaon, could touch 48°C again.

Major cities like Bhopal, Indore, and Jabalpur are also expected to experience a rise in temperature. Gwalior may become the hottest among them, with temperatures possibly reaching 47°C.

The weather has been unstable since April. The first week saw hot winds and high temperatures. By the second week, rain, storms, and hail hit 80% of the state. The third week brought strong winds and warm nights. Western disturbances and active cyclonic systems caused repeated weather changes.

Madhya Pradesh’s weather this summer has shifted away from its usual patterns. Instead of dry heat, the state has seen a mix of storms, rain, and moderate heat—raising new questions about how climate systems are evolving across central India.

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