Key Points
- Delhi-NCR is experiencing intense heat, with daytime temperatures reaching 40–42°C and poor air quality.
- Relief is expected soon as IMD forecasts light rain and gusty winds for Delhi-NCR from April 29 onward.
- North and Northwest India, including Rajasthan, Haryana, and Punjab, are under heatwave warnings, with temperatures soaring up to 46°C.
- Northeast India, especially Assam and Meghalaya, faces heavy rainfall and strong wind alerts this week.
- South India will see scattered light to moderate rain, while central states like Madhya Pradesh brace for dust storms and gusty winds.
- Bihar and Jharkhand will see fluctuating temperatures and occasional rain, with some relief from intense heat.
- Health advisories remain in place for vulnerable groups due to high temperatures and poor air quality.
New Delhi: Delhi-NCR continues to reel under intense heat, with maximum temperatures hovering around 40–42°C and nighttime lows near 25–29°C. Bright sunshine has dominated the mornings, while haze and poor air quality (AQI in the “poor” category) persist, prompting health advisories for children, the elderly, and those with respiratory issues.
However, a change is on the way. The India Meteorological Department (IMD) forecasts partly cloudy skies and gusty winds (30–50 km/h) for April 28–29, with very light rain likely to bring some respite from April 29 onward. By April 30 and May 1, maximum temperatures are expected to drop to 36–38°C, with further relief from light rain and thunderstorms possible on May 2–3. No heatwave warning is currently in place for Delhi, but precautions against heat and pollution remain advised.
North and Northwest India: Heatwave Intensifies
Rajasthan, Haryana, and Punjab are experiencing severe heatwave conditions, with temperatures peaking at 44–46°C in western Rajasthan and parts of Haryana and Punjab. The IMD has issued heatwave warnings for these regions through the end of April, with some relief expected in early May due to thunderstorms and rain. In Rajasthan, hot nights and dust storms have also been reported, especially in the Jodhpur and Bikaner divisions.
Northeast India: Heavy Rainfall and Wind Alerts
While the north bakes, Northeast India is bracing for a different challenge. The IMD has issued warnings for heavy to very heavy rainfall in Assam, Meghalaya, and Arunachal Pradesh through April 27, with strong winds (50–60 km/h) expected in some areas. This could lead to localized flooding, traffic disruptions, and minor damage to infrastructure. Residents are advised to avoid flood-prone areas and monitor local advisories.
Central India: Madhya Pradesh Faces Dust Storms
Madhya Pradesh is set for a mix of heat and stormy weather. Maximum temperatures in Bhopal are forecast around 41°C, with strong winds (40–50 km/h) likely to trigger dust storms in several districts. The IMD has issued warnings for thunderstorms and gusty winds across east and west Madhya Pradesh, with above-normal rainfall expected in the coming week.
Uttar Pradesh: Above-Normal Heat, Little Rain
Uttar Pradesh remains hot, with maximum temperatures ranging from 36–43°C across the state. The Bundelkhand region is particularly affected, and the number of heatwave days this April is above normal. Rain is rare for this time of year, so residents should prepare for continued heat and take precautions against dehydration and heat-related illnesses.
Bihar and Jharkhand: Fluctuating Temperatures, Some Relief
Bihar has seen temperatures above 42°C, but occasional rain is forecast for Patna, Sitamarhi, Muzaffarpur, and other districts between April 27–30, which may bring temporary relief. Jharkhand has enjoyed a brief respite from the heat due to recent winds and light rain, but the weather is expected to turn hot again soon, with no major heatwave warning yet issued.
South India: Scattered Rain, Hot and Humid Conditions
Southern states such as Karnataka, Andhra Pradesh, Telangana, and Tamil Nadu can expect light to moderate rain in many areas, with hot and humid weather prevailing in the coastal regions. No significant change in temperatures is expected in the immediate term.
Advisory
- Delhi-NCR: Expect relief from heat after April 29; continue to avoid outdoor activities during peak hours and monitor air quality.
- North/Northwest India: Stay hydrated, avoid direct sun, and heed local heatwave advisories.
- Northeast India: Prepare for heavy rain and possible flooding; follow local safety advisories.
- Central and South India: Watch for dust storms, thunderstorms, and fluctuating temperatures.
Stay updated with the latest IMD bulletins for real-time weather changes and safety instructions.
