May 2025 has brought unprecedented and unseasonal heavy rainfall across various regions of India, leading to widespread disruptions, infrastructural damage, and tragic loss of lives. The India Meteorological Department (IMD) attributes this unusual weather pattern to a cyclonic circulation over the Arabian Sea, intensifying pre-monsoon activities nationwide.
Southern India: Bengaluru Submerged
Bengaluru experienced its heaviest May rainfall in two years, receiving 130 mm of rain in just 12 hours. This led to the deaths of three people, over 500 homes being flooded, and 20 lakes overflowing. Major roads and underpasses were submerged, causing severe traffic snarls and stranding vehicles for hours.
Western India: Maharashtra Faces Torrential Rains
The IMD issued orange and yellow alerts in Maharashtra, especially for Pune and the Konkan region. From May 19 to 24, strong thunderstorms, lightning, and winds of up to 60 kmph battered areas like Nashik, Jalgaon, and Kolhapur. Fifteen deaths were reported, with severe damage to crops in Nashik and nearby districts.
Northern India: Storm Hits Delhi and NCR
On May 2, Delhi experienced a severe storm with wind speeds reaching 80 kmph and rainfall up to 8 cm. A tragic incident in Dwarka claimed the lives of a woman and her three children due to a falling tree. The storm also caused a temperature drop of 10°C and led to over 200 delayed flights.
Eastern & Central India: Flood Alerts and Thunderstorms
In Tamil Nadu, the Krishnagiri district issued flood alerts as dam levels rose in the Thenpennai river. Meanwhile, Andhra Pradesh saw strong winds and thunderstorms in coastal areas such as Kakinada and Amalapuram, with significant rainfall affecting daily life.
Climate Change and Urban Infrastructure Concerns
The intense and unseasonal rainfall patterns observed this month highlight the increasing influence of climate change on India's weather. Urban areas continue to face challenges due to poor drainage systems and inadequate infrastructure. Experts stress the urgent need for climate-resilient urban planning and sustainable disaster preparedness.