India Braces for Another Rain-Heavy October, Says Weather Office
The Meteorological Office of India has released an important update for the month of October, warning that there is a possibility of another spell of heavy rainfall in many parts of the country. An unusually wet September, which saw record-breaking rain in many states, forecasts show that October will bring more challenges to people, farmers and the city’s administrations, continuing the trend.
Set a wet September platform
September 2025 ended with heavy rains in large areas of India. Everyone recorded normal rainfall in cities like Delhi, Mumbai, Kolkata and Bengaluru. Floods, crop damage and waterfalls were also seen in many rural areas. In fact, some states like Assam, Bihar and Uttar Pradesh faced widespread disruption due to inflamed rivers and breached embankments.
The Indian Meteorological Department (IMD) now says that October is unlikely to give a lot of relief. Instead, rain may continue with intensity in some areas, especially in the eastern, northeast and southern parts of the country.
Meteorological predictions
According to the IMD forecast, October rains are expected to be “above normal” in many areas. The Northeast monsoon, which usually begins around mid-October, is likely to bring stronger-than-normal conditions this year. Coastal states like Tamil Nadu, Andhra Pradesh and Kerala are likely to be the most affected.
At the same time, states like Odisha, West Bengal, Chhattisgarh and Jharkhand are also expected to get more than average rainfall in Central and Eastern India. Even parts of North India, including Delhi and Haryana, can experience a reduction in rainfall due to western disturbances bringing moisture from the Bay of Bengal.
Impact on Agriculture
The weather forecast has expressed concern for the farmers of India, especially in states that rely a lot on the monsoon for crop growth. October is an important month for harvesting kharif crops like rice, maize and pulses. During this period, heavy rain can damage crops, reduce yield and cause financial loss.
Experts say that farmers will need additional care to prevent waterlogging in the fields. In flood-prone areas, the drainage system will be significant to avoid damage to standing crops. On the positive side, good rainfall can benefit areas that are still facing groundwater deficiency, as it will help recharge reservoirs and wells.
Urban flood concerns
For the residents of the city, another rainy month can mean more problems with waterlogging and traffic jams. Cities like Mumbai, Chennai and Bengaluru are already unsafe for urban floods due to insufficient drainage systems. Heavy rain for a long time can once again expose these weaknesses.
Municipal bodies have been alerted in many cities. For example, the civilian agencies of Delhi have prepared emergency plans to deal with potential waterfalls and damage to roads. In Chennai, the authorities are already cleaning drains and canals to prepare for North Eastern monsoon.
Health and Safety Issues
Extended spells of rain can also create health risks. Stagnant water often becomes a breeding ground for mosquitoes, leading to diseases like dengue, malaria, and chikungunya. Public health departments have been asked to monitor the situation closely and carry out anti-mosquito drives.
Additionally, prolonged damp weather increases the chances of waterborne diseases like diarrhea, cholera, and typhoid. Doctors are advising people to drink only boiled or filtered water and to maintain proper hygiene during the season.
Transport and Travel Disruptions
Heavy rains often disrupt travel, both by road and by air. In September, several flights were delayed or canceled due to poor visibility and waterlogged runways. Railway services in eastern India also faced disruptions because of flooded tracks.
Officials warn that similar problems may occur in October if the rain forecast holds true. Travelers are being advised to keep an eye on weather updates before planning journeys. States are also preparing disaster relief teams to handle emergencies in case of floods or landslides.
Climate Change Concerns
Many experts point out that extreme rainfall events in India are becoming more frequent and intense. Climate change, they argue, is playing a role in shifting weather patterns, making rainfall unpredictable.
The IMD itself has noted that while total annual rainfall may not have changed much over the years, the distribution has. India now often faces long dry spells broken by very heavy bursts of rain, which increases the risk of flooding.
Environmentalists are urging the government and local authorities to improve urban planning, river management, and disaster preparedness to cope with these changes.
Government Response
The central and state governments have already begun preparing for the heavy rains expected in October. Disaster management authorities are on high alert, and states have been told to identify vulnerable districts and stock up on relief materials.
In Assam and Bihar, where floods have been severe in the past, embankments are being strengthened and evacuation shelters are being prepared. In Tamil Nadu and Andhra Pradesh, authorities are focusing on urban flood control and improving drainage systems ahead of the northeast monsoon.
Public Advice
The weather office has issued several safety tips for the public. People are advised to:
- Stay indoors during heavy rain unless necessary.
- Avoid walking or driving through flooded areas.
- Store essential medicines, drinking water, and dry food.
- Keep emergency contact numbers handy.
- Follow updates from the IMD and local authorities.
Conclusion
India is preparing for yet another rain-heavy month as October approaches with warnings of above-normal rainfall. While the rains may bring some benefits in terms of water storage and relief for drought-hit areas, they also carry risks of flooding, crop loss, health issues, and urban disruption.
For millions of Indians, the coming weeks will require extra caution and preparedness. As the skies open up once again, the nation will need to balance the blessings of rain with the challenges it brings.
