New Delhi, Apr 20: India is set to experience a spell of intense conditions over the coming days, with the India Meteorological Department issuing a warning for heatwave conditions across several parts of the country between April 20 and April 25.
According to the weather agency, isolated pockets in northwest, central, and adjoining eastern regions are likely to face prolonged periods of high temperatures. States expected to be affected include Haryana, Punjab, Delhi, Rajasthan, Madhya Pradesh, Uttar Pradesh, Chhattisgarh, Jharkhand, Odisha, and parts of West Bengal.
Meteorologists have indicated that the heatwave will not be uniform but will impact different regions on varying dates throughout the forecast period. The situation is expected to intensify particularly in inland areas where dry conditions prevail.
Humidity and Warm Nights Add to Discomfort
In addition to soaring daytime temperatures, the IMD has warned of hot and humid weather in several coastal and eastern regions. Areas such as Gangetic West Bengal, Tamil Nadu, Puducherry, Kerala, Coastal Andhra Pradesh, and parts of Gujarat are likely to experience oppressive humidity levels, significantly increasing discomfort.
Warm night conditions where temperatures remain unusually high even after sunset are also expected in parts of Haryana, Chandigarh, West Uttar Pradesh, Madhya Pradesh, Vidarbha, Chhattisgarh, and Odisha. Such conditions can pose health risks, especially for vulnerable populations, as they limit the body’s ability to recover from daytime heat.
Thunderstorms and Hailstorms Forecast
While heatwave conditions dominate the forecast, the IMD has also highlighted the likelihood of moderate to intense thunderstorm activity across regions of south, central, east, and northwest India.
There is a possibility of hailstorms in select areas, including parts of Maharashtra, Madhya Pradesh, Vidarbha, and Chhattisgarh. These sudden weather changes could bring temporary relief from the heat but may also lead to localized damage to crops and infrastructure.
Advisory and Precautionary Measures
Authorities have urged residents in affected regions to take necessary precautions, including avoiding prolonged exposure to direct sunlight, staying hydrated, and monitoring weather updates regularly.
The combination of heatwave conditions, humidity, and unstable weather patterns underscores the need for preparedness as India moves deeper into the summer season. Experts warn that such extreme weather events are becoming increasingly frequent, emphasizing the broader impact of changing climate patterns.
As the situation evolves, the IMD continues to monitor developments and issue timely updates to help mitigate risks and ensure public safety.