Indore experienced its wettest May in 139 years, recording 114.8 mm (4.6 inches) of rainfall. The last time the city came close to this figure was in 1886, with 107.7 mm. This unusual weather has surprised residents and experts alike.
Throughout May, Madhya Pradesh saw relentless rain, hail, and thunderstorms. Rain was recorded in 53 out of 54 districts. Only Niwari saw a light drizzle that wasn’t measurable. In Indore, the intensity was higher than expected.
Why Indore Saw Record Rainfall
Along with rain, strong winds lashed the city. Storms blew at speeds up to 121 km/h, uprooting trees and damaging property. The impact wasn’t limited to Indore. Nearby districts like Dhar and Khargone reported severe damage to banana and papaya crops. Dewas received the highest rainfall in the state, with 160.5 mm (6.3 inches), while Ujjain recorded 111.8 mm.
Senior meteorologist Dr. Divya E. Surendran explained the cause behind the extreme weather. “Multiple weather systems remained active throughout May, including cyclonic circulation and western disturbances. This constant activity led to widespread rain and storm conditions.”
Unusually, May was also cooler. In previous years, cities like Indore saw temperatures rise above 43°C. This year, it stayed below that mark. “Even during Nautapa, which is usually the hottest period, the heat was mild,” said Dr. Surendran.
The weather is expected to remain unstable for a few more days. Rain and thunderstorm alerts are in place until June 4. Day and night temperatures may rise slightly, but humidity will increase. The monsoon is expected between June 7 and 10.
Indore’s historic rainfall highlights changing weather patterns. It raises concerns about infrastructure, crop loss, and disaster preparedness. “We were caught off guard. If this becomes frequent, the city needs better drainage and alert systems,” said civil engineer Alok Sharma.
What to Expect in June
As June begins, residents are bracing for more rain, and many are asking whether this unusual May is a sign of things to come.
The weather is expected to remain unstable till June 4. Storms and rainfall may continue. Monsoon is likely to reach Madhya Pradesh between June 7 and 10. Humidity will rise, and temperatures may increase slightly before cooling down again by the month’s end.
How Other MP Districts Were Affected
Across Madhya Pradesh, May saw an average of 2 inches of rainfall, seven times the normal average of 7 mm. Ujjain, Dewas, Anuppur, and Ratlam were among the wettest districts. Even Bhopal, which usually stays dry in May, received 45.6 mm (1.8 inches).
“Such widespread and consistent rainfall in May is rare for the state,” said Dr. Surendran. “It suggests shifting patterns that need close monitoring.”
As June begins, much of Madhya Pradesh remains under rain watch, with the early monsoon now just days away.
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