📷 Image: Wikimedia Commons / Calistemon
Weather
Why Indian Cities Flood After Heavy Rain and Overheat in Summer, Experts Say
✍️ The Indian Express
🗓 22 Aug 2026, 10:51 PM
👁 5
Experts attribute urban flooding and summer overheating in Indian cities to rapid urbanisation, inadequate drainage and rising temperatures.
Urban planners and climate scientists say that the combination of intense monsoon downpours and soaring summer temperatures is straining city infrastructure. Rapid expansion of built‑up areas reduces natural drainage, while many municipal storm‑water systems are outdated and unable to cope with the volume of water.
Experts also point to the heat island effect, where concrete and asphalt absorb and retain heat, raising ambient temperatures and intensifying the impact of rainstorms. Higher temperatures increase the atmosphere's capacity to hold moisture, leading to heavier downpours that overwhelm clogged drains.
The consensus among researchers is that improving drainage networks, enforcing stricter zoning rules, and integrating green spaces can mitigate both flooding and heat stress in Indian metropolises. Policymakers are urged to adopt climate‑resilient urban designs to protect residents from recurring water‑related disasters.
Experts also point to the heat island effect, where concrete and asphalt absorb and retain heat, raising ambient temperatures and intensifying the impact of rainstorms. Higher temperatures increase the atmosphere's capacity to hold moisture, leading to heavier downpours that overwhelm clogged drains.
The consensus among researchers is that improving drainage networks, enforcing stricter zoning rules, and integrating green spaces can mitigate both flooding and heat stress in Indian metropolises. Policymakers are urged to adopt climate‑resilient urban designs to protect residents from recurring water‑related disasters.