The IMD has flagged regions including Delhi, Rajasthan, Punjab, Haryana, Gujarat, and Madhya Pradesh for extreme weather conditions.
India Reels Under Heatwave: 20+ Cities Cross 42°C, Delhi Hits 40°C, Mumbai Road ‘Melts’
The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued many advisories, warning of dangerously high temperatures, warm nights, and the risk of heat-related ailments in various locations of India. From Delhi to Maharashtra, the majority of the country is experiencing harsh weather patterns.
States gripped by heat
Several states are taking the brunt of the heatwave. The IMD has identified Delhi, Rajasthan, Punjab, Haryana, Gujarat, and Madhya Pradesh as areas prone to severe weather. As of early April, 27 meteorological stations in Gujarat, Rajasthan, Maharashtra, and Madhya Pradesh had reported temperatures of 43°C or above, with at least 19 of them classified as “heatwave to severe heatwave”.
Daytime temperatures in Rajasthan and Gujarat have routinely exceeded 44°C. Cities such as Rajasthan’s Barmer reported 46.4°C, Jalgaon in Maharashtra reached 42.5°C, while Delhi recorded 40°C on Wednesday midday and 25.6°C at night, making it the hottest April night in three years. The national capital’s air quality has also deteriorated, with the AQI reaching a low of 209.
April’s heat is exceptionally strong.
It is only the beginning of April, but over 20 cities in India have already topped 42°C, predicting a lengthy summer ahead. The heat issue is mostly affecting Delhi, Uttar Pradesh, and parts of Rajasthan.
Temperatures in Uttar Pradesh are forecast to continue above 40°C throughout April, May, and June, with the Bundelkhand area bearing the brunt of the heat.
Melting Roads in Maharashtra
Mumbai reached a high of 34°C on Wednesday, with unusually high humidity levels. A road near the BMC (Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation) offices reportedly melted due to the high temperatures.
The IMD has issued a ‘yellow’ notice for Mumbai, warning of moderate health hazards to vulnerable groups, including the elderly, children, and outdoor laborers.
South India experiences unpredictable weather patterns.
While the northern and central regions suffer from scorching heat, southern India has irregular and varied weather. Telangana has seen odd weather patterns, with high heat in centers such as Hyderabad and Nizamabad, while intermittent showers have cooled other regions of the state.
Meanwhile, Andhra Pradesh is forecast to have thunderstorms, lightning, and strong winds until April 13. The IMD links these events to a low-pressure zone and cyclonic circulation over the Bay of Bengal. While these storms may give some temporary relief, they also increase the potential of flash floods and wind damage.
Add Business Connect magazine to your Google News feed
