Heatwave Intensifies Across North India as IMD Warns of Storms, Heavy Rain in Northeast

The India Meteorological Department has issued a comprehensive two-week weather outlook, warning of intensifying heatwave conditions across northern and central India even as heavy rainfall and thunderstorms are expected in the northeastern region.

The latest bulletin by the Ministry of Earth Sciences highlights a sharp contrast in weather patterns across the country, with scorching temperatures in the plains and widespread rain activity in the northeast likely to dominate until early May.

Heatwave Expands Across Northern Plains

According to IMD, a fresh spell of heatwave conditions began over Haryana on April 18 and gradually spread to Delhi, Uttar Pradesh, Uttarakhand, and parts of Madhya Pradesh. Temperatures have remained significantly above normal in several regions.

The highest maximum temperature recorded during the past week was 45.4°C in Banda (Uttar Pradesh), while the lowest minimum temperature was 14°C in Sarsawa (West Uttar Pradesh).

Temperature Highlights

IMD said heatwave conditions are likely to persist in several states including Rajasthan, Madhya Pradesh, Uttar Pradesh, Bihar, and parts of eastern India during the coming days.

Rainfall Deficit Despite Localised Heavy Showers

Despite intense rainfall in parts of northeast India, the country as a whole recorded a 45% rainfall deficit during the week ending April 22.

Rainfall Distribution Across India

However, on a seasonal basis (March 1 to April 22), rainfall across India remains 4% above normal, indicating uneven distribution.

Heavy Rainfall and Storm Alerts in Northeast

The IMD has warned of extremely heavy rainfall in Assam and Meghalaya, along with widespread thunderstorm activity across northeast India.

States likely to be impacted include:

• Arunachal Pradesh
• Assam & Meghalaya
• Nagaland, Manipur, Mizoram & Tripura

Thundersqualls with wind speeds reaching 50–70 kmph are also expected, raising concerns over damage to crops, infrastructure, and power lines.

Hailstorms and Thunderstorm Activity

Hailstorm activity has already been reported in parts of Maharashtra, Telangana, Haryana, and northeastern states. More such events are expected in the coming days, particularly over:

• Jharkhand
• Madhya Maharashtra
• Marathwada

Experts warn that these conditions could damage standing crops and disrupt normal life.

Weather Forecast: Week 1 (April 23–29)

Key Weather Systems

• Western Disturbance over western Himalayas
• Cyclonic circulation over northeast Bangladesh
• Troughs extending across central and peninsular India

Region-wise Forecast

Northwest India:

• Rain, thunderstorms, and gusty winds expected over Jammu & Kashmir, Himachal Pradesh, and Uttarakhand
• Light rainfall likely in Punjab, Haryana, and Uttar Pradesh

Northeast India:

• Widespread rainfall with heavy to very heavy showers
• Thundersqualls likely in Assam & Meghalaya

East India:

• Thunderstorms, lightning, and gusty winds across Bihar, West Bengal, and Odisha
• Hailstorm activity possible in Jharkhand

Central India:

• Isolated rainfall and thunderstorms in Madhya Pradesh and Chhattisgarh

South India:

• Rainfall activity over Kerala, Karnataka, Andhra Pradesh, and Tamil Nadu

West India:

• Light rainfall with thunderstorms in Maharashtra and Goa

Weather Forecast: Week 2 (April 30–May 6)

The IMD predicts continuation of unstable weather patterns:

• Weak western disturbance over Himalayas
• Strong moisture flow from Bay of Bengal into northeast India
• Persistent trough over peninsular India

Expected Conditions

Heatwave and Temperature Outlook

IMD has issued warnings for continued heatwave conditions during Week 1 across:

• Rajasthan (April 23–29)
• Madhya Pradesh (April 23–27)
• Uttar Pradesh, Bihar, Odisha, Jharkhand (April 23–25)

Hot and humid conditions are also expected in coastal regions including Tamil Nadu, Andhra Pradesh, and Gujarat.

Temperature Trend

• Rise of 2–3°C expected in northwest and central India initially
• Gradual fall expected after April 26 in some regions
• Above-normal temperatures likely to persist into early May

Climate Drivers: ENSO, IOD and MJO

IMD noted that large-scale climate patterns remain neutral:

• ENSO (El Niño–Southern Oscillation): Neutral, with possible El Niño development later
• Indian Ocean Dipole (IOD): Neutral conditions expected to continue
• Madden-Julian Oscillation (MJO): Favorable for rainfall over Arabian Sea and Bay of Bengal

These factors are contributing to increased convective activity and rainfall over parts of the country.

Impact and Advisory

Heatwave Risks

• Increased risk of heatstroke and dehydration
• High vulnerability for elderly and outdoor workers

Advisory:

• Stay hydrated and avoid direct sun exposure
• Use ORS, lemon water, and buttermilk

Heavy Rainfall Risks

• Urban flooding and waterlogging
• Traffic disruptions and landslides in hilly areas

Advisory:

• Avoid flood-prone areas
• Follow traffic and local administration advisories

Thunderstorm and Hailstorm Risks

• Damage to crops and infrastructure
• Power outages and falling trees

Advisory:

• Stay indoors during storms
• Avoid shelter under trees
• Secure loose objects

Agricultural Advisory

Farmers across states have been advised to:

• Provide irrigation during heatwave conditions
• Use mulch and shade nets to protect crops
• Ensure proper drainage in heavy rainfall areas
• Protect orchards using hail nets

Livestock owners are also advised to ensure adequate water supply and shelter for animals.

Conclusion

The IMD’s latest forecast paints a mixed weather scenario for India, with extreme heat gripping large parts of the country while the northeast braces for heavy rainfall and storms. Authorities have urged citizens to remain vigilant and follow advisories as weather conditions remain dynamic over the next two weeks.

The evolving climate patterns underscore the increasing variability in India’s pre-monsoon season, making preparedness and timely response crucial for minimizing damage and ensuring public safety.