Weather patterns across the country are experiencing a sharp contrast, driven by an active tropical system over the sea and the shifting timeline of the retreating monsoon. While coastal regions brace for a potential cyclone impact, several interior states are witnessing intense downpours, contrasted by rising September heatwaves elsewhere.
What Happened: Cyclone Arnab and Coastal Alerts
The cyclonic storm 'Arnab' over the Bay of Bengal has intensified its movement, tracking westward at 12 km/h over the past six hours. Positioned in the sea approximately 70 kilometers from Kalingapatnam in Andhra Pradesh, the system is expected to cross the coast near Odisha by tonight.
Simultaneously, the southwest monsoon has made an early exit from Delhi, departing two days ahead of its normal schedule. While overall seasonal rainfall in the capital finished 16% above normal, the withdrawal has now extended across Punjab, Haryana, large parts of Rajasthan, and selective pockets of Uttar Pradesh and Gujarat.
Regional Breakdowns: Heavy Rains vs. September Heat
Weather conditions remain fragmented across different states:
- Bihar & Madhya Pradesh: The Meteorological Department has issued a yellow alert across all 38 districts of Bihar, warning of widespread rainfall and potential lightning strikes. Meanwhile, Madhya Pradesh—which has recorded 91.5% of its average seasonal rainfall so far—faces a heavy rain alert in districts like Chhindwara, Seoni, and Balaghat over the next four days.
- Uttar Pradesh: Heavy morning showers struck Lucknow and Unnao, with 41 districts currently under a rain alert. Western parts of the state are expected to witness monsoon withdrawal within the next two to three days.
- Rajasthan & Heatwave Conditions: Following the cessation of rains, Rajasthan is experiencing unusual September heat resembling mid-summer. Daytime temperatures breached the 41°C mark in Jaisalmer, while Bikaner and Barmer crossed 40°C. Dry conditions are predicted to persist for the next four to five days.
- Haryana & Uttarakhand: A western disturbance is expected to influence Haryana starting September 26, bringing cloudy skies and light-to-moderate rain between September 28 and 30. In Uttarakhand, light showers are forecasted in seven districts, including Uttarkashi, Chamoli, and Nainital.
What's Next
Authorities advise residents in coastal zones near the path of Cyclone Arnab to stay updated on official warnings as sea conditions remain rough. In regions experiencing heavy downpours, localized waterlogging and reduced visibility remain key concerns for the immediate future.
