Heatwave Horror: 7 Shocking Weather Alerts as North India Boils & East Drowns in Rain

India is currently facing a stark weather divide, with intense heatwaves sweeping through the northwest and heavy rainfall threatening the east. The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued heatwave warnings for Delhi, Rajasthan, Gujarat, and Madhya Pradesh, with temperatures climbing as high as 44°C in parts of West Rajasthan. Coastal states like Kerala and Tamil Nadu are also battling high humidity, worsening heat stress.

Meanwhile, eastern and northeastern states—Assam, Meghalaya, Bihar, and others—are bracing for heavy rains, thunderstorms, and strong winds, which could lead to disruptions and flooding. Central India, including Vidarbha and Chhattisgarh, is seeing isolated showers, while Bengaluru may get light thundershowers. The contrasting weather highlights serious risks: heatwaves endanger public health and energy supplies, while downpours may damage crops and infrastructure.

The IMD urges citizens to stay updated, take heat precautions, and prepare for possible rain-related hazards. These weather extremes underscore the growing urgency for climate adaptation measures across India.

Heatwave Horror: 7 Shocking Weather Alerts as North India Boils & East Drowns in Rain

As India grapples with starkly contrasting weather patterns, the India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued alerts for severe heatwaves in northwestern regions and heavy rainfall in the east, underscoring the nation’s diverse climate challenges.

Scorching Heat Grips North and West

Delhi residents woke to warmer-than-usual temperatures on Wednesday, with the minimum settling at 23.4°C—1.8 degrees above normal. The capital is expected to see a high of 37°C, accompanied by partly cloudy skies by evening. Meanwhile, air quality remained in the ‘moderate’ range (AQI 184), signaling manageable pollution levels but urging caution for sensitive groups.

The heatwave’s intensity peaks in West Rajasthan, where temperatures are forecast to soar between April 16–18, with East Rajasthan, Gujarat, and parts of West Madhya Pradesh also experiencing isolated heatwaves. Nighttime temperatures in these regions are expected to stay uncomfortably high, amplifying health risks such as heat exhaustion. Coastal areas like Kerala, Tamil Nadu, and Gujarat face additional discomfort due to high humidity, which exacerbates the perceived heat.

Eastern India Prepares for Downpours

In stark contrast, northeastern and eastern states brace for widespread rainfall, thunderstorms, and gusty winds (40–50 kmph) over the next five days. Assam and Meghalaya are on alert for heavy showers today, while Nagaland, Manipur, Mizoram, and Tripura could see intense rainfall by Thursday. Bihar, Gangetic West Bengal, Jharkhand, and Odisha may encounter thunderstorms with winds reaching 50–60 kmph, potentially disrupting daily life and agriculture.

Central India, including Vidarbha and Chhattisgarh, isn’t spared, with isolated rains predicted. Bengaluru, too, might see brief thundershowers amid a partly cloudy sky.

Yesterday’s Weather Snapshot

Recent conditions highlight this divide: Odisha’s Katak recorded 8 cm of rainfall Tuesday, while East Uttar Pradesh faced dust storms. West Rajasthan endured severe heat, with Jaisalmer and Bikaner hitting 43–44°C.

Why This Matters

Heatwaves strain energy grids and public health systems, particularly affecting outdoor workers and vulnerable populations. Conversely, heavy rains, while replenishing water sources, risk flooding, crop damage, and travel delays. The IMD’s alerts urge residents to stay informed—avoiding midday sun in heatwave zones and preparing for possible flooding in the east.

Staying Safe Amid Extremes

• Heatwave Zones: Stay hydrated, limit outdoor activity during peak hours, and use cooling aids.

• Rain-Affected Areas: Monitor flood advisories, secure property, and avoid waterlogged routes.

As climate variability intensifies, such weather extremes highlight the need for adaptive measures, from urban heat action plans to robust drainage systems. The IMD continues to update forecasts, offering critical guidance for millions navigating India’s unpredictable weather tapestry.