New Delhi, Aug 26 (IANS) The India Meteorological Department’s Meteorological Centre in Bhopal has issued a nowcast warning forecasting thunderstorms accompanied by lightning and rain across large parts of Madhya Pradesh.
Weather experts said several western and northern districts are under higher alert levels, while central and eastern parts remain under watch or lower warning categories.
The IMD listed possible impacts of heavy to very heavy rainfall, including waterlogging and temporary flooding in low‑lying areas, disruption of road and rail traffic due to water accumulation and reduced visibility, and the risk of strong winds uprooting weak trees or damaging temporary structures. Agricultural fields may face short‑term water stagnation, and localised power supply interruptions are possible.
According to the advisory, moderate thunderstorms with lightning and moderate rain are likely over Sheopur Kalan, Morena, Gwalior, Bhind, Datia/Ratangarh, Shivpuri, Guna, Ashoknagar, Tikamgarh, Niwari/Orchha, and Mandsaur/Gandhi Sagar Sanctuary. These areas may receive rainfall at 5–15 mm per hour, with a 30–60 per cent probability of cloud‑to‑ground lightning.
Light thunderstorm with lightning and light rain is expected over Neemuch, Ratlam, Dholawad, Agar‑Malwa, Rajgarh, Vidisha, Udayagiri, Damoh, Panna, Rewa, Satna, Chitrakoot, Chhatarpur, Khajuraho, Bhopal, Sehore, Raisen, Narmadapuram, Betul, Shajapur, Ujjain, Balaghat, Seoni, Jabalpur, Narsinghpur, Chhindwara, Mandla, Dindori, Katni, Umaria, Anuppur, Sagar, Sidhi, Shahdol and Singrauli. Rainfall intensity in these districts is likely to remain below 5 mm per hour, with less than 30 per cent probability of lightning.
The IMD cautioned about possible impacts of heavy rainfall, including waterlogging of low‑lying areas, temporary disruption of road and rail traffic due to water accumulation and poor visibility, and the risk of localised flooding. Strong winds associated with thunderstorms could uproot weak trees and damage thatched or temporary structures. Agricultural fields may also face temporary water stagnation.
Residents have been advised to take precautions, stay away from rivers, canals and low‑lying areas, avoid standing under trees or near electric poles during thunderstorms, and ensure electrical and electronic equipment is safeguarded. Farmers have been urged to protect harvested crops and livestock. Motorists have been asked to drive cautiously on wet roads and avoid unnecessary travel in affected areas.
–IANS
sktr/dan
