Monsoon to Become Active in Varanasi on July 27: 60 Small Temples Submerged as Ganga Water Level Rises, Ganga Aarti Venue Shifted from Lalita Ghat

The monsoon is expected to become active in Varanasi, India, starting July 27, 2024, after a period of relative inactivity. The Ganga river's water level has risen, submerging 60 small temples and forcing the relocation of the Ganga Aarti venue from Lalita Ghat to an alternative location. The Uttar Pradesh Regional Meteorological Centre's senior scientist, Dr. Atul Kumar Singh, stated that monsoon winds are likely to increase from July 26, with the monsoon trough currently positioned southward and expected to shift northward. No heavy rain alert has been issued for the next three days, but increased monsoon activity is anticipated across Uttar Pradesh and other parts of the country from July 27.

Global Impact

This is a regional weather event with localized humanitarian and economic impact. The flooding of temples and relocation of a major religious ceremony highlights immediate social and cultural disruption in Varanasi.