The India Meteorological Department (IMD) on Monday issued a warning of heatwave conditions across several parts of northwest, central and adjoining eastern India over the next four to five days, as temperatures continue to rise sharply, reported PTI.
Heatwave conditions expected across multiple regions
According to the IMD, isolated pockets of several states are likely to experience heatwave conditions between April 20 and April 25. These include Haryana, Punjab, Delhi, Rajasthan, Madhya Pradesh, Uttar Pradesh, Vidarbha, Chhattisgarh, Jharkhand, Odisha and Gangetic West Bengal, reported PTI.
The weather agency noted that both western and eastern regions of the country will be impacted, with varying intensity across states during this period.
Hot and humid weather to persist in coastal and southern regions
In addition to heatwave conditions, the IMD has forecast hot and humid weather in several coastal and southern regions. These conditions are expected to prevail over parts of Gangetic West Bengal through April 26.
States such as Tamil Nadu, Puducherry, Kerala, Coastal Andhra Pradesh and coastal Gujarat are also likely to experience discomfort due to high humidity levels combined with elevated temperatures over the coming days, reported PTI.
Warm night conditions to add to discomfort
The IMD further warned of warm night conditions in several regions, which can significantly increase heat stress. Areas likely to be affected include Haryana, Chandigarh, West Uttar Pradesh, Madhya Pradesh, Vidarbha and Chhattisgarh during April 20–21, and Odisha through April 22, reported PTI.
Such conditions are particularly concerning as they offer little relief from high daytime temperatures, increasing health risks for vulnerable populations.
Thunderstorms and hailstorms likely in some states
Despite the prevailing heatwave conditions, the IMD has also predicted moderate to intense thunderstorm activity across parts of south, central, east and northwest India on April 20.
There is also a possibility of hailstorms in isolated regions, including Madhya Maharashtra, Marathwada, Madhya Pradesh, Vidarbha and Chhattisgarh. These sudden weather events may bring temporary relief but could also cause localised damage, reported PTI.
IMD advises caution amid fluctuating weather patterns
The weather department has advised residents in affected regions to take precautions against extreme heat, including staying hydrated and avoiding prolonged exposure to direct sunlight.
(With inputs from PTI)