Hailstorm, heavy rainfall damage crops in many parts of state
Bhopal experienced gusty winds at speeds ranging from 65 to 70 kilometers per hour, accompanied by heavy rain on Tuesday evening. This weather phenomenon resulted in power outages in several localities across the state capital.
In a sudden turn of weather conditions, Bhopal experienced a notable shift on Tuesday as strong gusty winds swept through the city, bringing about a change in the atmospheric conditions. The weather update reported moderate to heavy rainfall accompanied by cloudy skies.
The gusty winds, reaching considerable speeds, started on Tuesday afternoon followed by spell of rain. Meteorological authorities attribute this weather phenomenon to a localized weather system affecting the region. The sudden change in weather patterns caught many residents off guard, as Bhopal had been experiencing relatively stable and dry conditions in recent days.
Local authorities have advised residents to be cautious of the changing weather conditions and to take necessary precautions. The sudden onset of gusty winds and rainfall led to slippery roads. Meteorologists predict that the gusty winds will gradually subside, but the cloudy conditions may persist for a while. The city is advised to remain vigilant and stay updated on weather forecasts as the weather situation evolves.
Showers to continue in many areas
The meteorological department predicts that the city, along with various regions including Bhopal (Bairagarh airport), Sehore, Shajapur, Vidisha (Udayagiri), Raisen (Sanchi), Bhimbetka, Khargone (Maheshwar), Jabalpur (Bhedaghat), Sidhi (Sanjay Dubri National Park), Shahdol (Bansagar Dam), Anuppur (Amarkantak), and Umaria (Bandhavgarh), will continue to experience hailstorms with lightning and strong winds at speeds ranging from 70 to 90 km/h.
Moderate thunderstorms, featuring lightning and winds at speeds between 50 and 70 km/h, are anticipated in Sagar, Damoh, Mandla, Chhindwara (Pench), Dindori, Singrauli, and Badwani (Bawangaja). Additionally, light thunderstorms with lightning are expected in Betul, South Rajgarh, Agar, Dewas, Ujjain (Mahakaleshwar), Indore Airport, Harda, Khandwa (Omkareshwar), Guna, Ashoknagar, Shivpuri, Balaghat, Katni, North Chhatarpur, Khajuraho, North Satna (Chitrakoot), Mauganj, Seoni, and Maihar.
Scindia’s flight diverted
The flight carrying Jyotiraditya Scindia was unable to land in Bhopal due to the unfavorable weather conditions. Ramji Avasthi, the airport director, reported that Scindia’s flight departed from Delhi at 3 pm and had to return due to the weather conditions. The scheduled arrival in Bhopal was at 4:10 pm.
Notably, the recent weather changes have resulted in significant damage to crops in Madhya Pradesh. Strong winds, hail, and rain on Monday night flattened wheat, chickpea, and mustard crops in fields across various districts, including Narmadapuram, Khandwa, Chhindwara, Tikamgarh, Betul, Chhatarpur, and Niwadi. Some districts witnessed submerged harvested crops, raising concerns about grain spoilage.
Chhindwara experienced 4 cm of rain overnight, while Pachmarhi and Shivpuri also saw rainfall. Hail in Khajuraho damaged crops, prompting administrative surveys in Betul.
Similar weather conditions are expected to persist until February 29 in the state, with alerts issued for hail and rain in 34 districts over the next 24 hours.
Lightning and hail also struck Narmadapuram
Lightning and hail also struck Narmadapuram district. Showers were reported in 15 districts, including Jabalpur, Khandwa, Burhanpur, Harda, Narsinghpur, and Bhopal.
A weather system, coupled with the hailstorms and rains is active in Madhya Pradesh due to which Chhindwara witnessed torrential rainfall accompanied by strong winds and hail on Monday.
Lightning and hail also struck Narmadapuram district. Showers were reported in 15 districts, including Jabalpur, Khandwa, Burhanpur, Harda, Narsinghpur, and Bhopal.
The weather is expected to change on Tuesday as well, with an alert issued for hailstorms in more than half of the state’s districts, totaling 34 districts, within the next 24 hours.
Survey to assess crop damage: CM
Chief Minister Dr. Mohan Yadav has instructed the district collectors to immediately start the survey of crop damage caused by hailstorm and excessive rain. Dr. Yadav said that the survey of all the farmers who have been affected by hailstorm and excessive rain should be done with seriousness and sensitivity and appropriate relief amount should be made available to the farmers immediately. All ministers, MPs and MLAs should monitor the survey. CM Dr. Yadav gave these instructions in the discussion held after the cabinet meeting.