Heavy Rains Leads to Closure of Banswara-Udaipur Highway
Traffic on the Banswara-Udaipur highway was halted on Monday August 26, 2024 after severe flooding, triggered by more than 200 mm of rainfall in Rajasthan over the past 24 hours. The heavy rains have led to road closures, disrupting travel and posing risks to commuters in the region.
As of Sunday night, the depression was positioned approximately 70 km south-southeast of Chittorgarh, Rajasthan. It is predicted to move west-southwest, potentially affecting South Rajasthan, Gujarat, Saurashtra, Kutch, and even parts of Pakistan by August 29. This weather system could result in widespread heavy rainfall, causing further disruptions in these areas.
IMD Issued Red Alert
IMD has issued a red alert for West Madhya Pradesh, with similar severe weather warnings for east and south Rajasthan, Gujarat, Saurashtra, and Kutch from August 26 to 29, 2024. Additionally, strong winds are forecasted, with speeds reaching up to 50 kmph in Madhya Pradesh and up to 60 kmph in southern Rajasthan.
Rainfall Recorded in Several Districts of Rajasthan
Significant rainfall has been recorded across several districts in Rajasthan, including Rajsamand, Chittorgarh, Ajmer, Bhilwara, and Pali. Banswara and Dungarpur districts have been particularly affected by the downpour. Banswara received 195 mm of rain, while Chikhali in Dungargarh recorded 132 mm. Other areas, such as Salopat, Bagidora, Bhungra, Arthuna, Garhi, Sajjangarh, and Kesarpura in Banswara, also reported between 127 mm and 195 mm of rain.
The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has forecast more rain for parts of southern and eastern Rajasthan over the next few days. A deep depression currently located over northwest Madhya Pradesh and adjacent eastern Rajasthan is expected to intensify, bringing heavy to extremely heavy rainfall.
The IMD has also warned of potential localized flooding, road closures, waterlogging, and landslides, particularly in hilly and urban areas. There is a risk of damage to horticultural crops and other agricultural produce due to the intense and prolonged rainfall.