IMD Issues Dual Weather Alert: Heatwaves and Heavy Rainfall Across India

IMD Issues Dual Weather Alert: Heatwaves and Heavy Rainfall Across India
New Delhi, April 23: The Indian Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued a significant weather advisory for the coming week, forecasting simultaneous occurrences of heatwaves and heavy rainfall across various regions of the country. The alert spans diverse weather conditions, from soaring temperatures in the north and central regions to intense rainfall and thunderstorms in the northeast and southern parts.
Heavy Rainfall in Northeast India
Between April 22 and 26, states in Northeast India including Assam, Meghalaya, and Arunachal Pradesh are expected to receive heavy to very heavy rainfall. On April 23, Nagaland, Manipur, Mizoram, and Tripura may also witness thunderstorms with heavy rain and gusty winds ranging between 30 to 50 km/h, potentially affecting daily activities.
Southern States to Experience Thunderstorms
Rain-bearing systems are likely to impact several southern states. Kerala, coastal Andhra Pradesh, and Karnataka are expected to receive rainfall accompanied by strong winds. Thunderstorms with lightning are also forecasted in Tamil Nadu, Puducherry, and Telangana over the next seven days.
Western Disturbance to Affect Northern India
A western disturbance, driven by a cyclonic system over northern and central Pakistan, is set to bring thunderstorms, lightning, and winds up to 50 km/h to the Himalayan states of Jammu & Kashmir, Ladakh, Himachal Pradesh, and Uttarakhand. Residents are advised to stay alert to potential disruptions.
Rain Predicted in Central India
Parts of central Maharashtra may receive rainfall on April 24 and 25, while Gujarat is expected to see heavy rain from April 22 to 24. Chandrapur in Maharashtra’s Vidarbha region recorded the highest temperature in the country at 44.6°C on Sunday.
Temperature Surge Across Multiple Regions
A gradual increase in temperature is expected across several regions. Northwestern India may see a 2–3°C rise over the next six days. Central India and Gujarat could see temperatures rise by around 2°C in the next three days. Eastern India is likely to experience the most significant jump, with temperatures climbing 4–6°C.
Heatwave Warnings in 11 States
The IMD has issued heatwave alerts for the following:
- East Rajasthan: April 22–26
- Uttar Pradesh, Madhya Pradesh, Chhattisgarh, Haryana, Odisha: April 22–25
- Punjab: April 23–25
- Gangetic West Bengal, West Rajasthan: April 23–26
- Bihar, Jharkhand: April 25–26
Additionally, night temperatures in Bihar are expected to remain elevated between April 23 and 26.
Delhi-NCR Forecast
The Delhi-NCR region is predicted to remain dry for the next three days, with maximum temperatures touching 42°C. Over the past 24 hours, the area recorded daytime temperatures between 38°C and 40°C, while nighttime lows stayed around 25°C to 26°C.
The IMD advises residents in affected areas to stay updated with local weather reports and take necessary precautions, particularly in regions under heatwave or storm warnings.