Scorching Heat Grips North India; Southern, Northeastern States to See Rain and Hail
New Delhi: The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued a comprehensive weather alert as extreme heat continues to grip parts of northwest and central India, while several southern and northeastern states are expected to receive rainfall, thunderstorms, and gusty winds over the coming days.
In Rajasthan and Gujarat, temperatures have risen sharply, with Barmer already crossing 43°C. The IMD has forecast that the mercury may climb to 45°C in the next three to four days. As a result, an orange alert has been issued for two districts in Rajasthan, while a yellow alert is in effect for nine others through April 9. Similar conditions persist in Gujarat and are spreading into central India.
Delhi is also facing a heatwave, with maximum temperatures expected to range between 39°C and 42°C over the next two days. On Sunday, the capital recorded a minimum temperature of 18.5°C, which is 1.5°C below normal. Humidity was measured at 43% in the morning, and the Air Quality Index (AQI) stood at 198, placing it in the ‘moderate’ category. A heatwave warning has been issued for the city.
In Madhya Pradesh, heatwave conditions are likely to intensify starting April 7, especially in districts bordering Rajasthan. However, light rain is forecast in the districts of Singrauli, Anuppur, Dindori, Mandla, and Balaghat on April 9. Despite this, much of the state, particularly its northern and western regions, remains under heatwave alerts.
Chhattisgarh is also experiencing rising temperatures, with Raipur touching 40°C. The heat is expected to persist throughout the week, and the IMD has warned of ongoing heatwave conditions in several areas.
In stark contrast, the southern and northeastern states are likely to experience rainfall and thunderstorms. Kerala, Tamil Nadu, Karnataka, Andhra Pradesh, Assam, Meghalaya, and the Andaman & Nicobar Islands are expected to receive precipitation along with gusty winds ranging between 40 and 50 km/h through April 7. The IMD has also predicted the possibility of hailstorms in some parts of Andhra Pradesh and northeastern India.
Additionally, from April 8, a fresh western disturbance is expected to affect the western Himalayan region, bringing rain, hailstorms, and strong winds to Jammu & Kashmir, Himachal Pradesh, and Uttarakhand.
As these contrasting weather patterns unfold across the country, the IMD advises residents in heat-affected areas to avoid outdoor exposure during peak afternoon hours, stay hydrated, and wear protective clothing. In regions expecting storms and rain, people are urged to remain cautious, seek shelter during lightning activity, and monitor local advisories.
