Severe Weather Alert: IMD Predicts Thunderstorms and Hail in Madhya Pradesh Until March 21
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Bhopal, March 19 (NationPress) The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued a critical alert for Madhya Pradesh, anticipating thunderstorms, lightning, hailstorms, and strong winds across numerous regions of the state over the next three days.
The Meteorological Centre in Bhopal warns that the prevailing unstable weather conditions, influenced by several cyclonic circulations and a western disturbance, are expected to intensify until March 21 before gradually subsiding.
As per the IMD's Bhopal office, areas in central and western Madhya Pradesh—including Bhopal, Indore, Raisen, Sehore, Vidisha, Narmadapuram, Khandwa, Burhanpur, and Khargone—are likely to experience intense thunderstorms accompanied by hail and winds reaching 40–50 km/h.
Similar weather patterns are projected for Datia, Bhind, and Betul.
On March 20, storm activities will shift eastward, impacting Jabalpur, Narsinghpur, Chhindwara, Sagar, Sidhi, Singrauli, Rewa, Satna, Shahdol, Umaria, Katni, Panna, and Damoh.
By March 21, while the intensity may slightly decrease, areas such as Rewa, Shahdol, Singrauli, and Anuppur will still be subjected to thunderstorms with gusty winds.
The IMD has reported hail activity in parts of Khandwa and Anuppur, warning that crops, fruits, and vegetables are at risk of significant damage.
Farmers are advised to quickly harvest ripe wheat, mustard, and pulses, store their produce securely, and refrain from irrigation or pesticide application during this time.
Livestock should be kept indoors, and residents are urged to remain indoors during thunderstorms, avoid taking shelter under trees, and stay clear of electrical poles and water bodies.
Vehicles should be parked in covered areas to mitigate hail damage. The temperature readings indicate maximums ranging from 34 to 39 degrees Celsius, with anomalies of up to 3.5 degrees Celsius noted in Khajuraho and Raisen.
Minimum temperatures are relatively mild, fluctuating between 15 to 22 degrees Celsius, with Shahdol recording a positive anomaly of 4.2 degrees Celsius.
Officials caution that the combination of hail, lightning, and strong winds could disrupt electricity and communication lines, as well as damage fragile structures.
The IMD urges the public to remain vigilant, heed official advisories, and take necessary precautions to minimize risks.
Madhya Pradesh is preparing for three days of severe weather that could challenge both rural and urban areas.