Raipur, March 17 (NationPress) The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued a 'Yellow Alert' across multiple districts in Chhattisgarh as the region undergoes a sudden weather transition. On Tuesday, the Met department cautioned residents about possible storms, gusty winds, thunderstorms, and lightning strikes, urging them to remain vigilant.

This alert encompasses all districts within the Surguja and Bilaspur divisions, in addition to Rajnandgaon, Kabirdham, Bemetara, Raipur, Balodabazar, Narayanpur, and Sukma. These regions face a heightened risk of abrupt weather changes, with thunderstorms expected to bring lightning and gusty winds reaching speeds of 30-50 kmph in isolated to scattered areas.

The weather activity is linked to an active weather system, influenced by a trough extending across central India along with possible remnants of broader seasonal disturbances affecting the area.

According to the latest updates from IMD, isolated to scattered light to moderate rainfall, accompanied by thunderstorms, lightning, and squall-like winds, is anticipated over Chhattisgarh from March 17-20.

There is also a possibility of hailstorms occurring at isolated locations, particularly on March 18 and 19 in certain parts of the state. This situation arises amidst a period of unstable weather across central and eastern India, where similar alerts have been issued for neighboring states such as Madhya Pradesh, Odisha, and Vidarbha.

The warning underscores the potential for sudden storms that could disrupt daily routines, damage property, and pose risks to outdoor activities, agriculture, and travel. The heightened risks from lightning strikes and strong winds are particularly concerning for rural and forested areas typical of Surguja, Narayanpur, and Sukma districts.

Authorities are advising residents to seek shelter indoors during thunderstorms, steer clear of open fields, tall structures, or bodies of water, and secure any loose items that could be displaced by the winds.

Farmers in the impacted areas are especially urged to exercise caution, as pre-summer storm activity can adversely affect standing crops, horticulture, and livestock.

Urban areas such as Raipur might experience temporary disruptions in power supply due to lightning or wind-related incidents. The Met department has indicated that a gradual decrease in maximum temperatures by 3-5 degrees Celsius is expected over the next few days in Chhattisgarh, offering some respite from the heat.

No significant changes are anticipated in the immediate future. Residents and local authorities are closely monitoring the situation, with district administrations on standby to address any emergencies.

The IMD has reinforced the following safety measures: 'Stay informed, stay prepared' during such weather conditions.