Key Points:
- North India Heatwave: IMD forecasts temperatures reaching up to 42°C in Delhi, Rajasthan, Gujarat, and Punjab, with heatwave conditions expected to persist until April 10.
- South and Northeast Relief: Rainfall predicted in Kerala, Tamil Nadu, Andhra Pradesh, and Northeast states like Assam and Meghalaya, bringing temporary respite.
- Precautions Advised: Authorities urge people to stay hydrated, avoid outdoor activities during peak hours, and protect vulnerable groups from extreme heat.
New Delhi: The Indian Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued a severe heatwave warning for several states in North and Central India. Starting April 5, temperatures are expected to soar to 40–42°C in regions including Delhi, Uttar Pradesh, Haryana, Punjab, Rajasthan, Gujarat, and Madhya Pradesh. The IMD predicts that this heatwave could last until April 10 in some areas.
In Delhi, the mercury is set to climb to 42°C by April 6 or 7. While no major heatwave alerts have been issued for the capital beyond April 7, the IMD warns of sweltering daytime conditions coupled with poor air quality. The Air Quality Index (AQI) remains in the ‘bad’ category due to heightened pollution levels.
Affected States and Timeline:
- Delhi: Peak temperatures of 42°C expected by April 7.
- Rajasthan: Heatwave conditions likely from April 6–10 in cities like Jodhpur, Barmer, and Kota.
- Gujarat: Saurashtra and Kutch regions under heatwave alert until April 8.
- Punjab and Haryana: Temperatures above 40°C with heatwave warnings until April 9.
Rainfall Brings Relief to Southern and Northeastern States
While North India battles scorching heat, South India and Northeast states are set to receive much-needed rainfall. The IMD forecasts light to moderate showers accompanied by thunderstorms in Kerala, Tamil Nadu, Andhra Pradesh, and North Karnataka over the next three days. Heavy rain is expected at isolated locations in Assam, Meghalaya, and Arunachal Pradesh.
An orange alert has been issued for Meghalaya and Assam due to the possibility of thunderstorms with lightning and hailstorms. Gusty winds ranging from 40–50 km/h may accompany these weather events.
Rainfall Predictions:
- Kerala & Tamil Nadu: Showers likely on April 5–6.
- Assam & Meghalaya: Heavy rainfall expected at isolated spots with thunderstorm activity.
- Andhra Pradesh & Karnataka: Moderate rain forecasted over the weekend.
Heatwave Havoc in Rajasthan and Gujarat
Rajasthan and Gujarat are among the worst-hit states as temperatures have already crossed the 40°C mark in early April. Cities like Bikaner, Jaisalmer, Ahmedabad, Rajkot, Bhuj, and Surendranagar are experiencing extreme heat conditions. The IMD warns that heatwaves will persist in these regions until April 8–10.
Local authorities have advised residents to take precautions such as staying indoors during peak hours (12 PM–4 PM), drinking plenty of water, and using cooling measures like fans or air conditioning.
Precautions During Heatwaves
The IMD has urged citizens across affected states to follow safety measures during this intense weather phase:
- Stay hydrated by drinking water regularly.
- Avoid outdoor activities during peak sunlight hours.
- Wear loose-fitting clothing and use sunscreen if stepping outside.
- Ensure proper ventilation at home or workplaces.
- Protect vulnerable groups such as children, elderly individuals, and those with pre-existing health conditions.
India is witnessing a sharp contrast in weather patterns this week as North India braces for an intense heatwave while South India enjoys temporary relief through rainfall. With temperatures expected to peak at 42°C in several northern states by early next week, authorities are emphasizing preparedness measures for public safety. Meanwhile, the rains in southern and northeastern regions offer a brief respite from the summer’s rising temperatures.
