Heatwave Crisis: 7 States Scorch Under Extreme Temperatures – Shocking Alerts & Urgent Warnings!

India is witnessing a sharp weather divide, with northern and central regions battling severe heatwaves while the southern and northeastern states brace for thunderstorms and rain. The IMD has issued alerts for over seven states, including Delhi, Rajasthan, and Gujarat, as temperatures soar well above normal. Delhi recorded 40.2°C on April 3, prompting a yellow alert and health advisories for the public. Rajasthan faces even harsher conditions, with orange and yellow alerts in effect due to expected severe heatwave spells.

Meanwhile, warm nights and high humidity persist across parts of Gujarat, Madhya Pradesh, and coastal regions. In contrast, southern states like Tamil Nadu and Kerala, along with northeastern states such as Assam and Meghalaya, are likely to experience thunderstorms, heavy rain, and lightning due to a cyclonic system in the Bay of Bengal. Hailstorms are also forecast in some northeastern areas, offering some heat relief but bringing safety concerns. Meteorologists urge citizens to stay indoors during peak heat, remain hydrated, and exercise caution during stormy conditions.

Heatwave Crisis: 7 States Scorch Under Extreme Temperatures – Shocking Alerts & Urgent Warnings!

As April unfolds, India finds itself split by starkly contrasting weather patterns. While the northern and central regions grapple with blistering heatwaves, southern and northeastern states are preparing for thunderstorms, heavy rain, and turbulent skies. This dramatic divide highlights the country’s increasingly unpredictable climate.

Northern and Central India Sizzle Under Heatwave Alerts

The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued heatwave warnings for seven states—Delhi, Rajasthan, Gujarat, Uttar Pradesh, Punjab, Haryana, and Madhya Pradesh. Temperatures in these areas have climbed well above seasonal averages, with Delhi recording a scorching 40.2°C on April 3. This marked the capital’s first heatwave of the year, exceeding the norm by 5 degrees. The IMD forecasts daytime highs could reach up to 42°C in parts of the north before a slight dip later in the week.

Rajasthan is among the worst affected, with an orange alert (indicating severe conditions) issued for April 8, followed by a yellow alert in the days after. Similar alerts are in place across Punjab, Haryana, Gujarat, Uttar Pradesh, and Madhya Pradesh, where intense heat is expected through April 10. Even at night, relief is minimal, with temperatures staying unusually high in Rajasthan, Madhya Pradesh, and the Saurashtra-Kutch region of Gujarat. Coastal areas like Konkan, Goa, and Gujarat are also struggling with high humidity alongside the heat.

Delhi’s Dual Challenge: Heat and Air Quality Concerns

Delhi’s residents are facing a double challenge—extreme heat and deteriorating air quality. On Tuesday, the city’s Air Quality Index (AQI) stood at 216, categorized as “poor,” although slightly improved from the day before. Forecasts indicate air quality could worsen before a western disturbance—originating from the Mediterranean—brings cloud cover and strong winds by Thursday, potentially easing both temperature and pollution levels. Authorities advise minimizing outdoor activity during peak heat hours (10 AM to 4 PM), staying well-hydrated, and wearing light, breathable clothing. Vulnerable groups such as children, the elderly, and those with health issues should take special care.

Southern and Northeastern States Prepare for Storms

In contrast, southern states including Tamil Nadu, Kerala, Karnataka, and Andhra Pradesh are gearing up for rain, thunderstorms, strong winds, and lightning in the coming days. The northeast—especially Assam and Meghalaya—is also expected to see stormy conditions, triggered by a cyclonic circulation over the Bay of Bengal. A weather trough extending from Bihar to Telangana is likely to intensify rainfall across these regions.

Assam, Meghalaya, and Bihar may experience hailstorms on April 8, with Jharkhand likely to face similar conditions on April 9. While the rain may bring temporary relief from the heat, residents are urged to remain cautious, as sudden lightning strikes and gusty winds could damage property or disrupt daily life.

Mumbai’s Mild Weather Offers Temporary Respite

Mumbai has remained relatively calm amid this nationwide weather unrest. Tuesday morning saw a temperature of 31°C with 49% humidity, rising to a high of 35°C later in the day. The city enjoyed clear skies on Wednesday, and forecasts predict similar conditions ahead. While humidity lingers, the absence of extreme heat or storms offers a brief reprieve for Mumbaikars.

Experts Urge Caution Amid Climate Extremes

Meteorologists are urging people in heatwave-hit areas to take necessary precautions. Prolonged exposure to high temperatures increases the risk of dehydration and heatstroke. Key recommendations include avoiding strenuous outdoor activities, wearing protective gear like hats and sunglasses, and drinking plenty of fluids. In storm-prone areas, people are advised to secure outdoor objects, avoid sheltering under trees during lightning, and stay informed through official weather updates.

A Nation Grappling with Climate Contrasts

India’s current weather scenario reflects a deepening pattern of climate unpredictability. While the north battles record-breaking temperatures, the south and northeast face intense pre-monsoon activity—both sides of the coin pointing to larger global climate shifts. As weather events grow more erratic and extreme, strengthening public awareness and infrastructure resilience is vital.

For now, the nation stands divided between scorching sunshine in the north and storm-filled skies in the south—a stark reminder of nature’s volatile temperament in this era of accelerating climate change.