Raipur : Persistent cloud cover, intermittent rain and cool winds kept Raipur and other parts of Chhattisgarh under a grey sky on Wednesday as Cyclone Arnab ’s impact continued across the state. Schools and colleges in Raipur will remain closed on Thursday, October 29, as a precautionary measure amid forecasts of heavy rain and strong winds.




School education minister Gajendra Yadav has recommended a two-day holiday in districts considered vulnerable to the cyclone’s impact, citing student safety. The state government has placed 12 districts on alert for heavy rain and strong winds.




The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has warned of continued rainfall as the cyclonic system moves inland after crossing the Andhra Pradesh coast . The storm made landfall with sustained winds of 125-135 kmph, gusting to 150 kmph, before weakening. Its impact is expected to persist over parts of central and northern Chhattisgarh on Thursday.




Heavy rain threat shifts towards north, central Chhattisgarh




While southern districts bore the brunt of the weather system, the risk of heavy rainfall is expected to extend to parts of northern and central Chhattisgarh on October 29. The IMD has forecast heavy to very heavy rain at isolated places, accompanied by thunderstorms, lightning and gusty winds .




Bastar, Bijapur, Dantewada, Kondagaon and Sukma were among the districts placed under heightened weather alerts. Wind speeds in vulnerable areas could reach 60-80 kmph, with stronger gusts possible at isolated locations. Gariaband, Raigarh and other districts also reported rain, while temperatures remained subdued in several areas.




Administration steps up precautions




The Raipur district administration has directed departments, including police, health, revenue, local bodies and electricity, to remain prepared for weather-related emergencies. Disaster-response teams and fire services have been placed on alert, while officials have been instructed to monitor low-lying areas, drains, vulnerable structures and power lines.




A control room has been activated to coordinate assistance and track weather alerts. Residents have been advised to avoid unnecessary travel, stay away from flooded roads and streams, and take shelter indoors during lightning and strong winds. The administration has issued helpline number 0771-2413233 for assistance.




Rain likely to continue on Thursday




The IMD has forecast continued unsettled weather on October 29, with rain and thundershowers likely in several parts of Chhattisgarh. Heavy to very heavy rainfall is possible at isolated places in northern and central districts, while thunderstorms and gusty winds remain a concern.