Heatwave Relief Begins As Monsoon Advances And Thunderstorms Intensify Across India

India is set to witness major weather changes over the coming days as the India Meteorological Department (IMD) has predicted a gradual relief from the intense heatwave conditions across several parts of Northwest and Central India, while simultaneously warning of widespread thunderstorms, heavy rainfall and strong squally winds in multiple regions. The weather agency said the prevailing heatwave to severe heatwave conditions are likely to reduce significantly from May 29, although isolated pockets of Rajasthan, Vidarbha and East Madhya Pradesh may continue to experience extreme temperatures for another day.

According to the IMD, Southwest Monsoon 2026 has advanced further into additional parts of the Arabian Sea, Bay of Bengal and the Andaman Sea. Conditions remain favourable for the monsoon to progress into more regions over the next two to three days, indicating a steady advancement of the rainy season across the country.

The weather department stated that thunderstorms accompanied by strong gusty winds and lightning are expected over Northwest India, Central India and East India between May 28 and May 31. Wind speeds during thundersqualls could range between 70 and 100 kmph in some regions, especially over Uttar Pradesh, Punjab, Haryana, Delhi and parts of eastern India. Dust storms are also likely in Rajasthan and Uttar Pradesh during this period.

Heavy rainfall activity has already begun in several regions. During the past 24 hours, isolated heavy rainfall was recorded over Odisha, Kerala, Assam and Meghalaya. The IMD has forecast more heavy rain over Northeast India, Odisha, Bihar, Gangetic West Bengal, Uttarakhand, Punjab, Haryana and parts of South India over the next few days. Kerala, Tamil Nadu, Karnataka and Lakshadweep are also expected to receive widespread rainfall accompanied by thunderstorms and gusty winds.

The department warned that localized flooding, waterlogging in low-lying areas, reduced visibility and traffic disruptions may occur in urban centres due to intense rainfall spells. Hailstorm activity is also likely in Himachal Pradesh, Uttarakhand, Punjab, Haryana, Delhi, Uttar Pradesh, Rajasthan, Bihar, Madhya Pradesh and Chhattisgarh.

Even as weather conditions begin changing, temperatures remained dangerously high on May 27 across many parts of the country. Maximum temperatures ranged between 43°C and 47°C over Northwest and Central India, adjoining Uttar Pradesh and parts of peninsular India. Rajasthan’s Sri Ganganagar recorded the highest maximum temperature in the country at a scorching 48.2°C.

The IMD noted that heatwave to severe heatwave conditions prevailed over Rajasthan, East Uttar Pradesh, Vidarbha and East Madhya Pradesh. Warm night conditions were also reported in parts of Central and Northwest India, increasing discomfort levels for residents.

However, the weather agency has predicted a significant drop in temperatures in the coming days. Maximum temperatures are likely to fall by 6°C to 8°C across Northwest India between May 28 and May 30 due to incoming thunderstorm activity and changing wind patterns. Central India is expected to witness a gradual temperature decline from May 29 onwards.

Delhi-NCR is also likely to receive major relief from the ongoing heatwave. The IMD forecast suggests thunderstorms, dust storms and rain accompanied by strong winds between May 28 and May 31. Wind speeds may reach up to 80 kmph during intense thunderstorm activity. The maximum temperature in Delhi, which recently hovered around 44°C to 46°C, is expected to fall sharply to nearly 35°C by May 29 and May 30.

The weather department has urged citizens to remain alert during thunderstorm and heavy rainfall events. People have been advised to stay indoors during lightning activity, avoid taking shelter under trees and unplug electrical appliances during severe storms. Authorities also warned of possible damage to power lines, standing crops and vulnerable structures due to strong winds and hailstorms.

Fishermen have also been advised not to venture into several parts of the Arabian Sea and Bay of Bengal due to rough sea conditions and strong winds associated with the advancing monsoon systems.

The IMD further issued agrometeorological advisories for farmers across several states. Farmers have been advised to ensure proper drainage in crop fields, protect harvested produce from rain and hail, and provide irrigation support in regions still experiencing heatwave conditions. Livestock owners have also been advised to provide adequate drinking water and shelter to animals during extreme heat and storms.

With the Southwest Monsoon steadily advancing and thunderstorm activity intensifying, India is now entering a major transition phase in weather patterns, bringing relief from the prolonged heatwave in many regions while increasing the risk of heavy rain, strong winds and localized weather-related disruptions.