IMD Issues Heatwave Alerts for Several States, Mercury to Rise Again

The short respite from severe heat in northwest and central India, due to two recent spells of rain, is over. The India Meteorological Department (IMD) on Sunday predicted a steady rise in maximum temperatures by 2-3°C in northwest India in the next five days, and the onset of another heatwave in many areas.

As per the IMD, scattered places in southern Uttar Pradesh and Madhya Pradesh are predicted to have heatwave conditions from April 22 to 24. The same is possible over Rajasthan and Haryana on April 23 and 24 and over Vidarbha from April 21 to 23. The IMD has put out yellow alerts—indicating a need to remain vigilant—over these areas. Individuals, particularly infants and the aged, are cautioned against stepping out during the heat.

Conversely, the Northeast will see a new spell of heavy rain from Tuesday. At the same time, eastern India’s temperatures can rise consistently by 4-6°C in the next four days.

Earlier this month, it was around April 8 that the mercury went soaring to record levels, with some western Rajasthan areas touching over 46°C. But the rains between April 9 and 12 and another short spell last week caused a temporary lull in the temperature. Chandrapur in Maharashtra was reported to be the hottest in India on Sunday, with a temperature of 44.6°C.

As the heat returns in full force, citizens are advised to be cautious against the increasing temperatures.