IMD Warns of Intense Heatwave Across Northwest, Central and Eastern India
IMD forecasts soaring temperatures, warm nights and contrasting heavy rainfall in northeastern states
NEW DELHI, Apr 22: The India Meteorological Department has issued a warning of intensifying heatwave conditions set to impact vast regions of northern, central, and eastern India over the next several days, raising concerns over public health and water availability.
According to the latest India heatwave forecast, extreme temperatures are expected to persist for four to five days, with several states likely to experience prolonged spells of oppressive heat. The weather agency highlighted that isolated pockets of Punjab, Haryana, Chandigarh, and Delhi may witness peak heatwave conditions particularly between April 24 and April 25.
The advisory further outlines a staggered timeline for heatwave impact across multiple regions. Western parts of Uttar Pradesh are expected to face extreme heat from April 23 to 25, while eastern Uttar Pradesh could experience similar conditions from April 22 through April 26. In Rajasthan, the heatwave is likely to intensify between April 24 and April 26, whereas Madhya Pradesh is expected to endure high temperatures from April 23 to April 26.
In central and eastern belts, Vidarbha and Chhattisgarh may face scorching conditions from April 24 to April 27. Meanwhile, eastern states including Bihar, Jharkhand, and Gangetic West Bengal are likely to experience heatwave conditions during April 22 and April 23.
The India heatwave forecast also indicates that coastal and southern regions will not be spared from discomfort. The IMD has predicted hot and humid weather in isolated areas of Odisha, coastal Andhra Pradesh, Yanam, Tamil Nadu, Puducherry, Karaikal, Kerala, Mahe, coastal Karnataka, and coastal Gujarat between April 22 and April 25. These conditions, though not classified strictly as heatwaves, can significantly affect human comfort and health due to high moisture levels in the air.
Adding to the discomfort, warm night conditions are expected in certain pockets of Haryana, Chandigarh, Delhi, Odisha, Konkan, and Goa. Elevated nighttime temperatures reduce the body’s ability to recover from daytime heat, increasing the risk of heat-related illnesses.
In contrast to the dry and hot conditions prevailing over much of the country, northeastern and some eastern regions are expected to receive relief in the form of rainfall. The IMD has forecast scattered to fairly widespread showers accompanied by thunderstorms and lightning throughout the week. Additionally, isolated areas in the northeastern states may witness heavy to very heavy rainfall on multiple days.
This stark contrast in weather patterns highlights the diverse climatic conditions currently affecting different parts of India. While one region braces for extreme heat, another prepares for intense rainfall, underscoring the complexity of seasonal transitions.
Authorities have advised residents in affected regions to take precautionary measures, including staying hydrated, avoiding direct exposure to sunlight during peak hours, and monitoring updates issued under the India heatwave forecast. Vulnerable groups such as children, the elderly, and those with pre-existing health conditions are particularly at risk during such extreme weather events.
As temperatures continue to climb, the coming days are expected to test resilience across multiple states, making preparedness and awareness crucial in mitigating the impact of this widespread heatwave spell.
