RAIN’S HAT-TRICK: HYDERABAD RECORDED THE HIGHEST RAINFALL IN THE MONTH OF AUGUST

Hyderabad is witnessing one of its wettest August months in recent memory, as the city recorded yet another spell of intense rainfall on Sunday, marking the third instance this month where precipitation levels have crossed the 100 mm mark in a single day. The latest downpour brought relief from the humid weather but also triggered waterlogging and traffic disruptions across several localities.

According to the Telangana State Development Planning Society (TSDPS), Nampally emerged as the rain hotspot of the day, logging an impressive 124.8 mm of rainfall. Other central and southern parts of the city, including Khairatabad, Charminar, and Himayatnagar, also experienced significant showers, with rainfall readings ranging between 90 mm and 115 mm. The heavy downpour, which began late in the afternoon, intensified during the evening hours, catching many commuters off guard and leading to long traffic snarls.

Rain Pattern Raises Eyebrows

Meteorologists point out that three heavy rainfall events exceeding 100 mm in a single month is not common for Hyderabad. Historically, such intense episodes are typically scattered over the monsoon season. This unusual frequency is being attributed to persistent low-pressure systems over the Bay of Bengal, coupled with strong monsoon currents pushing moisture-laden winds into Telangana.

The India Meteorological Department (IMD) Hyderabad center stated that the rainfall pattern this month is reminiscent of the 2020 and 2022 monsoon seasons, when back-to-back wet spells caused flooding in low-lying areas. The agency has also cautioned that similar conditions could prevail over the next few days, as another low-pressure system is expected to develop over the east-central Bay of Bengal.

Impact Across the City

While the rain offered a much-needed cooldown after several hot and humid days, its impact on daily life was considerable. Several arterial roads, including stretches in Khairatabad, Lakdikapul, and Chaderghat, were submerged in ankle- to knee-deep water. Commuters reported delays of over an hour on key routes, and public transport services, including city buses, were forced to take diversions.

In residential colonies near Charminar, Falaknuma, and Dabeerpura, waterlogging was severe, with drains overflowing and causing minor flooding inside some homes. Municipal workers were deployed through the night to clear clogged drains and pump out excess water.

The Greater Hyderabad Municipal Corporation (GHMC) issued an advisory urging residents to avoid unnecessary travel during intense spells and to keep children indoors. GHMC disaster response teams remained on high alert, especially in flood-prone pockets such as Malkajgiri, Musheerabad, and Tolichowki.

Public Reaction and Preparedness

For residents, the rain was both a delight and a disruption. While many welcomed the respite from the sultry weather, others expressed frustration over Hyderabad’s recurring drainage woes. Social media platforms were flooded with pictures and videos of waterlogged streets, floating debris, and stranded vehicles.

Urban planners have long emphasized the need for an upgraded stormwater drainage network in Hyderabad. Despite recent projects aimed at expanding drain capacity and improving rainwater harvesting, critics argue that the pace of infrastructure improvement is not keeping up with the city’s rapid urban expansion.

Weather Outlook

The IMD has forecast more moderate to heavy rainfall for Hyderabad over the coming week, with the possibility of another intense spell if the incoming low-pressure system strengthens. Authorities have urged citizens to remain cautious, especially in areas with a history of flash flooding.

For now, the monsoon has firmly gripped the city, ensuring that August 2025 will be remembered as a month of repeated torrential showers. With three 100 mm-plus events already in the books, weather records may continue to tumble if the rains persist in the coming weeks.

As Hyderabad’s skyline alternates between grey clouds and streaks of lightning, one thing is clear—this monsoon is determined to leave its mark on the city’s calendar and its streets.