A powerful storm coupled with unseasonal rainfall swept through multiple districts in Madhya Pradesh on Wednesday, causing widespread disruption to daily life, agriculture, and infrastructure. The weather system impacted key districts including Indore, Bhopal, Dewas, Agar, Mandsaur, Ratlam, Shajapur, Sehore, Sidhi, and Narmadapuram, with reports of uprooted trees, damaged structures, and power outages across several areas.
In Indore’s Aerodrome area, a falling tree struck a vehicle, injuring the driver. Dewas witnessed the collapse of several trees and hoardings along Bhopal Road. Agar experienced torrential rain and high-speed winds for the second day in a row, resulting in waterlogged roads and minor damage. In Mandsaur’s Shamgarh and Sitamau, heavy rainfall and hailstones were reported, particularly near Rupni Chowpatty.
Ratlam’s Alot region endured nearly an hour-long storm that brought down multiple trees, while Shajapur saw light rain accompanied by thunderstorms. A severe dust storm hit Sehore’s Ashta area, and in Sidhi’s Bhitri village, a kutcha house collapsed, with several nearby homes losing cement-sheet roofs due to the high winds. In Narmadapuram’s Dolriya village, a mass marriage tent was brought down by strong gusts on Tuesday evening, highlighting the scale of the disruption.
Significant agricultural damage was reported across affected regions. In Ratlam’s Anandgarh, a short circuit led to a fire that destroyed stored wheat, garlic, and animal fodder. Two goats also died in the blaze. Meanwhile, harvested wheat kept in mandis was soaked in several locations, adding to farmers’ woes.
The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued alerts for moderate rainfall, thunderstorms, and wind speeds up to 60 kmph in Dewas, Agar, and Shajapur. Light rainfall is expected in Neemuch, Mandsaur, Ujjain, Rajgarh, Khandwa, Harda, Sehore, and Narmadapuram during nighttime hours.
Senior Meteorologist Dr. Divya E. Surendran confirmed that a Western Disturbance is likely to intensify by May 2, potentially bringing rainfall to as many as 40 districts, including Bhopal, Jabalpur, and Gwalior on May 2 and 3. The unseasonal precipitation has been attributed to active cyclonic circulation and troughs over central India. However, heatwave conditions may continue in western parts of the state bordering Rajasthan and Gujarat.