Strong pre-monsoon storm batters Bhopal:Rain, hail and fallen trees disrupt traffic and power supply

Pre-monsoon activity intensified across Madhya Pradesh on Thursday, with Bhopal witnessing strong winds of nearly 70 km/h accompanied by heavy rain. The powerful storm caused widespread disruption across the city, uprooting trees and breaking branches at more than 200 locations. Several major roads were affected, leading to traffic congestion and disruptions in vehicular movement. Power infrastructure suffers major damage The storm also severely impacted the city’s power distribution network. According to officials, nearly 300 electricity feeders were either fully or partially affected, resulting in power outages in several parts of Bhopal. Restoration work was initiated as teams worked to clear fallen trees and repair damaged infrastructure. Hailstorm in Shajapur, heavy rain in Sehore While Bhopal experienced strong winds and rain, other districts also reported significant weather activity. A hailstorm was reported in Shajapur, while Ichhawar in Sehore district received heavy rainfall. The changing weather conditions brought relief from the intense summer heat in many areas. Rain and Thunderstorms reported in 29 districts During the past 24 hours, thunderstorms and rainfall were recorded in 29 districts across Madhya Pradesh. Sheopur received the highest rainfall, recording nearly 1.75 inches of rain. Bhopal, Narmadapuram and Rajgarh also witnessed substantial rainfall during the period. More rain and Storms expected The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has indicated that thunderstorms, rain and lightning activity are likely to continue across Madhya Pradesh over the next few days. Weather experts attribute the conditions to active pre-monsoon systems influencing the region. Monsoon likely to arrive late this year The Meteorological Department has also indicated that the southwest monsoon may reach Madhya Pradesh five to seven days later than usual. According to current forecasts, the monsoon is expected to enter the state between June 20 and June 22, slightly later than the normal onset date.