The monsoon's influence across India is gradually receding, with the India Meteorological Department (IMD) indicating that its withdrawal is likely to commence today from western Rajasthan. This phased retreat will progressively extend across the country. However, even as the monsoon departs, various states are encountering diverse weather conditions. While some regions continue to face flood-like situations, others have experienced tragic outcomes from rainfall after prolonged dry spells. Notably, over 10,000 people in Uttar Pradesh’s Gonda district remain impacted by floods, and five individuals tragically died in lightning strikes in Maharashtra’s Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar. Uttarakhand also confronts persistent challenges in its mountainous areas, with numerous roads closed due to recent landslides.
Monsoon Withdrawal Begins: A Phased Retreat Across India
The IMD forecasts that the monsoon withdrawal will begin from western Rajasthan today, followed by a gradual retreat from Punjab, Haryana, Delhi, and parts of Madhya Pradesh. Subsequently, monsoon activity will weaken in Uttar Pradesh, Bihar, Jharkhand, Chhattisgarh, and the remaining areas of Maharashtra, eventually concluding across the country. This timely withdrawal is crucial for India's agricultural cycle, influencing the sowing of winter crops. However, the season's performance has been mixed, with some regions experiencing ample rainfall while others faced deficits, raising concerns about water scarcity.
Uttar Pradesh Faces Flood Havoc: 10,000 Stranded in Gonda
Despite the impending monsoon withdrawal, several parts of Uttar Pradesh continue to battle floods. In Gonda district, while the Ghaghra river's water level has slightly receded, approximately 10,000 people across 15 villages remain severely affected. Homes and residential areas are submerged, displacing thousands to relief camps. Agricultural land has suffered extensive damage, with 20 bighas in Gonda lost to the river, impacting farmers' livelihoods and paddy crops. Relief efforts are ongoing, but the scale of the disaster presents significant challenges. Rain activities are expected to decrease from September 22, potentially improving the situation, though light rain alerts persist for 31 districts. Meanwhile, in Varanasi, the receding Ganga river has revealed ghat steps, offering some relief.
Maharashtra Tragedy: Lightning Strikes Kill Five in Sambhajinagar
A tragic incident occurred in Maharashtra’s Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar (formerly Aurangabad) on Friday, where five people, including a couple, died in two separate lightning incidents during rainfall following a long dry spell. Four others were injured. This event highlights the dangers of lightning, especially in rural areas. Local authorities have offered condolences and arranged treatment for the injured. Safety precautions, such as avoiding open spaces or tall structures during thunderstorms, are crucial. The incident dampened the initial relief brought by rain after a period of drought, underscoring the importance of vigilance against unpredictable weather.
Uttarakhand's Mountainous Challenges: Landslides and Travel Disruptions
Uttarakhand's weather remains volatile. While no specific alert has been issued for today, light rain or thundershowers are possible in higher altitudes despite morning sunshine in many areas. Recent rain and snowfall have led to the closure of 52 roads, disrupting connectivity to remote villages. Repair work is extensive due to landslides. The Kedarnath Yatra is also affected; the pedestrian route from Sonprayag is temporarily halted (5-9 AM) for repairs following a landslide at Cheerbasa, though helicopter services continue. Such weather-induced disruptions significantly impact both tourism and local livelihoods.
Snapshot of Weather Across Other States
- Chhattisgarh: The monsoon has reactivated, with alerts for rain, thunderstorms, and strong winds (30-60 kmph) in many areas today.
- Madhya Pradesh: Average rainfall stands at 33.2 inches (89.3% of normal). Heavy rain is expected in some districts in the last 11 days of the season, potentially meeting the total quota, though Indore, Ujjain, Jabalpur, and Narmadapuram divisions received less than normal rain.
- Rajasthan: While western Rajasthan sees monsoon withdrawal, a yellow alert for light to moderate rain remains for 22 districts in eastern parts. Dungarpur, Banswada, and Pratapgarh received up to 8 inches of rain, with Bikaner’s Kolayat getting 3 inches, causing a 6°C drop in day temperatures.
- Haryana: Monsoon withdrawal has begun, with dry weather expected from September 20. The state received 317 mm of rain, 22% below normal, potentially necessitating alternative irrigation for farmers.
- Bihar: The monsoon is weakening, causing dry conditions in most districts. A yellow alert for rain, 30 kmph winds, and lightning has been issued for 13 districts. Kishanganj recorded the highest rainfall (134 mm) in the past 24 hours.
As monsoon withdrawal progresses across India, various states grapple with diverse weather challenges, from devastating floods and tragic lightning strikes to hopes of meeting rainfall quotas. Amidst these unpredictable patterns, adherence to meteorological warnings is vital for public safety and minimizing potential losses.
