Indore, Sep 29 (NationPress) As the city of Indore gears up to host its inaugural Women’s World Cup Cricket match on October 1, it finds itself under the influence of a persistent monsoon.

The Holkar Stadium, the battleground for the Australia vs New Zealand showdown, has been shielded in preparation for expected rainfall, leading to worries about the conditions on match day and the pitch's readiness.

“Thunderstorms and moderate rain are anticipated in Indore during the first week of October, although heavy downpours are not expected,” stated Divya E. Surendran, Senior Meteorologist at the Bhopal Meteorological Department, in an interview with IANS.

The rainfall that commenced on Sunday evening delivered 3.2 mm of precipitation, pushing Indore’s seasonal total beyond its average of 38 inches. Consequently, the city has already eclipsed last year’s total of 35.5 inches, making September a notably wet month, providing a refreshing break from the heat.

The cool breeze accompanying the rain has resulted in a significant temperature drop, with Sunday’s maximum temperature recorded at 29.1°C - four degrees below normal - and the minimum at 23.4°C, three degrees above average.

Meteorologists attribute the current weather conditions to a system active in Andhra Pradesh, which has now spread to the Malwa region. Light rain is expected to persist for the next three to four days, potentially impacting early matches.

Although the official monsoon season typically concludes on September 30, it is now anticipated to extend beyond October 7, indicating that post-monsoon showers may continue into the first week of October.

Despite the weather challenges, enthusiasm is mounting for the tournament. While the India vs Australia opener will be held in Guwahati on October 1, Indore’s Holkar Stadium will host five significant matches, starting with Australia vs New Zealand on the same day.

Additional matches include New Zealand vs South Africa on October 6, India vs England on October 19, Australia vs England on October 22, and Australia vs South Africa on October 25. City officials and stadium staff are working tirelessly to ensure the venue is prepared for the matches, with pitch covers and drainage systems in place. Cricket enthusiasts remain optimistic that the rain will not overshadow the excitement of the game or the players' performances.

As Indore welcomes international teams and fans, the city's unpredictable weather provides a dramatic backdrop to what promises to be an exhilarating kickoff to the Women’s World Cup.