imd-alerts-heatwave-for-several-states-on-may-18

The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued a warning for heatwave conditions expected to affect several states on May 18. This alert indicates that many regions will experience extreme temperatures, which can have significant impacts on health and daily activities.

 

According to the IMD, areas likely to face heatwave to severe heatwave conditions include Punjab, Haryana, Chandigarh, Delhi, and West Rajasthan. East Rajasthan will also see similar conditions in some pockets.

 

Other states expected to be affected by heatwave conditions include Uttar Pradesh, Madhya Pradesh, Sub-Himalayan West Bengal, Gangetic West Bengal, Bihar, Gujarat, and Saurashtra & Kutch.

 

Senior IMD scientist Dr. Naresh Kumar provided further insights, noting that continuous western disturbances had influenced Northwest India from April to recent days, leading to isolated rainfall in parts of Jammu and Kashmir, Himachal Pradesh, and Uttarakhand.

 

This rainfall helped keep temperatures from rising excessively in those regions. However, as of May, temperatures have started reaching extreme levels, with some areas seeing temperatures as high as 45 degrees Celsius.

 

Dr. Kumar highlighted that Rajasthan has already seen temperatures of 45 degrees Celsius, while Punjab and Haryana are experiencing temperatures near 44 degrees Celsius. Uttar Pradesh is also facing similar heatwave conditions.

 

The forecast indicates that Rajasthan, Punjab, Haryana, and Uttar Pradesh will continue to face heatwave conditions for the next five days, while Madhya Pradesh and Bihar will experience these conditions for the next four days.

 

Following this period, there may be mild thunderstorms, which could provide some relief by slightly lowering temperatures.

 

For the southern states, the IMD has forecasted heavy to very heavy rains in Tamil Nadu, Kerala, and South Karnataka over the next five days. This is a contrast to the heatwave conditions expected in the northern and central parts of the country.

 

The IMD's weather advisory further mentions that heat to severe heatwave conditions are likely to persist over the plains of Northwest India and Bihar during the next five days. Additionally, heatwave conditions are expected to commence over East and Central India from May 18.

 

Moreover, a wet spell with isolated heavy to very heavy rainfall is expected to continue over South Peninsular India until May 23. This rain could help mitigate the impact of the heatwave in these southern regions, providing some relief to residents.

 

Given the severe weather conditions predicted, it is crucial for people in the affected areas to take necessary precautions. This includes staying hydrated, avoiding direct sunlight during peak hours, and keeping cool in the shade or indoors as much as possible.

 

The authorities are likely to provide updates and further advisories, and residents are advised to stay informed and heed any warnings issued by the IMD.