The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued a major heatwave warning for several parts of northwest and central India, predicting extremely high temperatures throughout the week. According to the weather department, many regions are likely to experience heatwave to severe heatwave conditions as temperatures continue to rise steadily over the next few days.
In its latest special bulletin, the IMD stated that maximum temperatures across many areas of northwest India are expected to increase by around two to three degrees Celsius between May 19 and May 24. Chhattisgarh may witness an even sharper rise, with temperatures expected to go up by three to four degrees Celsius until May 21. The weather agency warned that prolonged exposure to such extreme heat could affect public health, especially children, elderly citizens, and people working outdoors.
The department said there would be no major change in temperatures over Maharashtra and Gujarat initially. However, from May 19 onwards, these states are expected to witness a slight drop in daytime temperatures by around two to three degrees Celsius. Apart from these regions, most other parts of the country are likely to see stable temperature conditions until May 24.
Several states in northern India are expected to face severe heat conditions over the coming days. Isolated areas in Punjab, Haryana, Chandigarh, Delhi, West Rajasthan, and East Rajasthan are likely to experience heatwave conditions from Monday through May 24. The IMD also warned that western and eastern parts of Uttar Pradesh could face heatwave to severe heatwave conditions between May 20 and May 24.
Central Indian states are also expected to remain under intense heat stress. Madhya Pradesh, Chhattisgarh, Vidarbha, Marathwada, and central Maharashtra may witness heatwave conditions in isolated pockets on different days during the week. The department added that Bihar and Telangana are also likely to experience high temperatures and heatwave conditions until May 21.
In southern India, coastal Andhra Pradesh and Yanam are expected to experience heatwave conditions from May 20 to May 24. Meteorologists have advised people in these regions to remain cautious, avoid direct exposure to sunlight during peak afternoon hours, and stay hydrated to reduce the risk of heat-related illnesses.
Health experts often warn that heatwaves can lead to dehydration, exhaustion, heatstroke, and other serious medical emergencies. Authorities are expected to issue local advisories and make arrangements such as drinking water facilities and emergency medical assistance in vulnerable regions.
The IMD regularly issues heatwave alerts during the summer season as India witnesses rising temperatures across several states every year. Experts believe that climate change and changing weather patterns are contributing to more frequent and intense heatwaves in the country. With temperatures expected to remain high this week, citizens are being urged to take necessary precautions and limit unnecessary travel during the hottest parts of the day.
The latest weather warning serves as an important reminder for both governments and citizens to stay prepared for extreme summer conditions and ensure safety measures are followed across affected regions.
