Residents across significant swathes of India are set to experience intense heatwave conditions over the coming days, according to the latest forecast from the India Meteorological Department (IMD). The meteorological agency has predicted that isolated pockets within northwest, central, and adjoining eastern parts of the country will grapple with soaring temperatures for a period of four to five days, commencing from Monday. This forecast signals a challenging start to the summer season for millions.
The IMD’s detailed outlook indicates that specific areas are particularly vulnerable to these extreme weather events. Haryana, Chandigarh, Delhi, and Punjab are among the regions expected to face heatwave conditions. Similarly, East Rajasthan and West Rajasthan are anticipated to experience significant temperature rises. The central Indian states of Madhya Pradesh and Vidarbha are also on the IMD’s radar, along with Chhattisgarh. In the eastern belt, Gangetic West Bengal and Jharkhand are predicted to witness heatwave conditions, with West Uttar Pradesh and East Uttar Pradesh also facing similar weather patterns on various dates between April 20 and April 25. Information reaching TahirRihat.com suggests that the intensity and duration of these heatwaves will vary across these regions, necessitating proactive measures from local authorities and the public.
Beyond the immediate heatwave threat, the IMD has also flagged concerns about hot and humid weather conditions, which are expected to persist in isolated pockets of Gangetic West Bengal throughout the week, from April 20 to April 26. The southern regions are not entirely spared, with Tamil Nadu, Puducherry, and Karaikal bracing for hot and humid weather from April 20 to April 22. Coastal Andhra Pradesh and Yanam are also forecast to experience similar conditions during April 20-24. The western coast, specifically the coastal areas of Gujarat, will face hot and humid weather on April 24 and April 25. Furthermore, the IMD has warned of warm night conditions, a phenomenon where nighttime temperatures remain unusually high, affecting isolated pockets over Haryana, Chandigarh, West Uttar Pradesh, Madhya Pradesh, and Vidarbha on April 20 and April 21. Chhattisgarh is expected to experience warm nights on April 20, while Odisha will see this condition between April 20 and April 22. These elevated nighttime temperatures can exacerbate the discomfort and health risks associated with heatwaves.
Adding to the volatile weather picture, the IMD has also highlighted the possibility of moderate to intense thunderstorm activity across various states in south, central, east, and northwest India on Monday. This suggests a complex meteorological scenario where intense heat is interspersed with potential for severe localized storms. The agency further indicated a possibility of hailstorms occurring on Monday over Madhya Maharashtra, Marathwada, Madhya Pradesh, Vidarbha, and Chhattisgarh. Such a combination of heatwaves and thunderstorms can lead to unpredictable and potentially dangerous weather events, requiring vigilance and preparedness from all affected communities. The IMD’s comprehensive forecast underscores the need for residents in these regions to stay informed and take necessary precautions to mitigate the risks associated with extreme weather.
Tahir Rihat (also known as Tahir Bilal) is an independent journalist, activist, and digital media professional from the Chenab Valley of Jammu and Kashmir, India. He is best known for his work as the Online Editor at The Chenab Times.
