Heatwave conditions are set to intensify across large parts of northwest, central and eastern India over the next four to five days, the India Meteorological Department said on Wednesday, warning of rising temperatures and prolonged spells of hot weather.
According to the weather office, isolated pockets of Punjab, Haryana, Chandigarh and Delhi are likely to experience heatwave conditions on April 24 and 25, with temperatures expected to cross the 40°C mark in several regions.
Western Uttar Pradesh is forecast to face heatwave conditions between April 23 and 25, while eastern Uttar Pradesh may see such conditions from April 22 to 26. Rajasthan and Madhya Pradesh are also likely to be affected between April 23 and 26, alongside Vidarbha and Chhattisgarh from April 24 to 27. Eastern states including Bihar, Jharkhand and Gangetic West Bengal are expected to experience heatwave conditions on April 22 and 23.
Meteorological data indicates that temperatures in parts of north and central India have already begun climbing sharply, with several locations recording highs above 40°C and projections suggesting further increases in the coming days.
Also read: Hot spell settles over north India, IMD issues alert
Hot and humid conditions in coastal belt
Beyond the heatwave zones, the IMD has forecast hot and humid conditions in isolated pockets of Odisha, coastal Andhra Pradesh, Yanam, Tamil Nadu, Puducherry, Kerala, Mahe, coastal Karnataka and coastal Gujarat between April 22 and April 25.
These regions may not meet the technical threshold for a heatwave but are likely to experience discomfort due to high humidity and elevated night-time temperatures.
Warm night conditions, where minimum temperatures remain significantly above normal, are also expected in parts of Haryana, Chandigarh, Delhi, Odisha, Konkan and Goa, compounding the health risks associated with prolonged heat exposure.
In contrast, northeastern states and parts of eastern India are expected to receive scattered to fairly widespread rainfall accompanied by thunderstorms and lightning during the week. The IMD has also warned of isolated heavy to very heavy rainfall over the region on several days.
The latest forecast aligns with broader seasonal projections indicating an increase in heatwave days across India during the summer months, particularly in eastern, central and northwestern regions.
Experts note that while April has seen intermittent rainfall in some parts, the overall trend points towards a gradual intensification of heat conditions heading into May and June, with rising night-time temperatures adding to heat stress.
Authorities have advised people to limit outdoor exposure during peak afternoon hours, stay hydrated and take precautions against heat-related illnesses as the country braces for a sustained spell of high temperatures.
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