Heatwave conditions are set to intensify across large parts of north and central India over the coming days, with the India Meteorological Department (IMD) forecasting temperatures touching 45 degrees Celsius in Delhi next week.
The weather department on Sunday warned that heatwave conditions are likely to persist over Rajasthan, Uttar Pradesh, Madhya Pradesh, Punjab, Haryana, Chandigarh, Delhi, Chhattisgarh and parts of the Konkan and Goa region till May 22.
According to the IMD, maximum temperatures are expected to rise by 2-3 degrees Celsius in the national capital over the next three days.
Delhi is likely to witness a partly cloudy sky on Sunday with chances of thundery development during the afternoon and evening hours. Surface winds blowing at 20-30 kmph, gusting up to 40 kmph, are also expected during the day.
The maximum temperature in the city is expected to hover around 44 degrees Celsius on Sunday, while clear skies forecast over the following days could push temperatures further up to 45 degrees Celsius next week.
The IMD said hot and humid weather conditions are also likely to continue across several parts of north and central India, increasing discomfort levels for residents.
Temperatures rising across northern plains
The weather office said maximum temperatures are likely to rise by 3-4 degrees Celsius over the Western Himalayan region in the coming days.
Most parts of northwest India are expected to witness a gradual increase in temperatures as dry conditions prevail across the plains.
Also read: Heatwave: ACs, sprinklers for animals at Gujarat's Jungle Safari
Several regions have already been experiencing severe summer conditions, with harsh sunlight, minimal cloud cover and dry winds intensifying daytime heat.
Meteorologists warned that prolonged exposure to heat during afternoon hours could pose health risks, particularly for children, the elderly and outdoor workers.
Rainfall, thunderstorms likely in several states
Even as heatwave conditions grip large parts of the country, the IMD has also forecast rainfall and thunderstorms in several regions.
Northeastern states including Nagaland, Manipur, Mizoram, Tripura, Arunachal Pradesh and Assam are expected to receive light to moderate rainfall accompanied by thunderstorms, lightning and gusty winds reaching speeds of 40-50 kmph.
In southern India, light to moderate rainfall along with thunderstorms has been predicted over Kerala, Tamil Nadu and Andhra Pradesh.
The IMD has also forecast light rain in parts of Uttarakhand, Jammu and Kashmir, Madhya Pradesh, Jharkhand and Chhattisgarh.
Authorities have advised people to avoid prolonged exposure to direct sunlight during peak afternoon hours and stay hydrated as temperatures continue to climb across several states.
Follow us
