Heatwave Alert: 7-Day IMD Forecast Warns of Extreme Weather in 10+ Indian States

The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued a comprehensive weather alert for several Indian states between April 2 and April 7, highlighting a mix of extreme conditions. Thunderstorms, hailstorms, and heavy rainfall are expected in parts of Maharashtra, Karnataka, Telangana, Odisha, and Jharkhand, while Kerala and Tamil Nadu brace for prolonged downpours. Simultaneously, a severe heatwave is sweeping through regions like Saurashtra, Kutch, Gujarat, and Rajasthan, with Surendranagar hitting a scorching 43°C. Daytime temperatures are rising 2–4°C above normal in many areas, especially across northwest and central India.

Delhi, Haryana, and West UP are also facing intensified heat stress with marked temperature anomalies. While southern India remains relatively stable for now, a noticeable rise is forecast by mid-week. IMD has urged citizens to stay indoors during peak afternoon hours, remain well-hydrated, and take extra care of vulnerable groups. The department has issued both yellow and orange alerts to signal the growing health risks and to encourage timely precautions.

Heatwave Alert: 7-Day IMD Forecast Warns of Extreme Weather in 10+ Indian States

The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued a fresh advisory, warning of extreme weather conditions—including heavy rainfall, thunderstorms, hailstorms, and intense heatwaves—expected to impact several states between April 2 and April 7. An orange alert has been sounded in multiple regions, urging residents to remain cautious and well-prepared.

Hailstorms Threaten Multiple States

A cyclonic circulation over Madhya Maharashtra is causing erratic weather patterns across the country. From April 1–2, hailstorms are likely in parts of Madhya Maharashtra and Marathwada. This threat will extend to Madhya Pradesh, Vidarbha, Chhattisgarh, South Interior Karnataka, and Telangana on April 2–3, and further to North Interior Karnataka until April 4. Jharkhand may witness hailstorms on April 3, followed by Odisha and Coastal Karnataka on April 3–4.

Heavy Rainfall in Southern Regions

Kerala and Mahe are expected to receive heavy rainfall from April 2–6. Tamil Nadu, Puducherry, Karaikal, and Coastal Karnataka should also prepare for significant downpours between April 3–6. These spells of rain could cause disruptions due to waterlogging and localized flooding.

Scorching Heatwaves Grip Western and Northern India

While storms lash southern and central parts of the country, western and northern India are reeling under severe heat. Saurashtra and Kutch in Gujarat are under a red alert for heatwaves on April 2, with temperatures forecast to exceed 43°C. West Rajasthan will face similar conditions from April 5–7. States such as Tripura, Assam, and Gujarat are also expected to record unseasonably high temperatures.

Current Temperature Trends

As of April 3, maximum temperatures have reached 39–42°C in Gujarat, southwest Rajasthan, South Haryana, and Delhi. Meanwhile, East Rajasthan, Maharashtra, Uttar Pradesh, Bihar, Odisha, Telangana, Jharkhand, and Vidarbha are recording 35–38°C. Surendranagar in Gujarat logged the highest temperature at a sweltering 43°C.

Temperature Deviations from Norms

Several parts of Haryana and Delhi are seeing temperatures 5°C above normal. Similarly, West Uttar Pradesh, Himachal Pradesh, Jammu & Kashmir, Rajasthan, Punjab, and parts of Northeast India have recorded deviations of 3–5°C. Early morning temperatures on April 4 were also 3–5°C higher than average in Nagaland, Manipur, Mizoram, Tripura, and Bihar.

7-Day Forecast: Rising Temperatures Ahead

Daytime temperatures across Northwest India are expected to climb by 2–4°C over the next six days. Central India and Maharashtra may witness a similar trend, while Gujarat’s intense heat may stabilize briefly before surging again. Southern India’s temperatures are likely to remain steady for a couple of days before gradually increasing.

Heatwave Spread Over the Week

• Day 1 (April 2): Saurashtra & Kutch, Delhi, Haryana, and Chandigarh will experience severe heat, with Gujarat also battling high humidity levels.
• Day 2 (April 3): Heatwave conditions will extend to West Rajasthan, Himachal Pradesh, and West Uttar Pradesh.
• Days 3–6 (April 4–7): Punjab, Madhya Pradesh, and Rajasthan will face intensifying heatwave conditions.
• Day 7 (April 7): Extreme heat is likely to persist in Rajasthan and West Madhya Pradesh.

IMD’s Safety Guidelines

To safeguard against extreme weather conditions:

1. Limit Sun Exposure: Avoid stepping outdoors during peak afternoon hours.
2. Dress Smartly: Choose light-colored, loose-fitting cotton clothes to stay cool.
3. Stay Hydrated: Drink water frequently, even if you’re not thirsty. Traditional beverages like buttermilk, lemon water, or rice water help replenish lost electrolytes.
4. Protect Vulnerable Groups: Special care should be taken for outdoor workers, young children, and the elderly—particularly in areas under orange alert.

Key Takeaways

While Central India and Maharashtra may see brief relief from heat until April 4, rising temperatures are expected to return quickly. Southern states must brace for intense rainfall, while northern and western regions should prepare for continued heat-related challenges. The IMD strongly advises citizens to remain vigilant, follow weather updates closely, and adopt recommended safety measures to minimize health risks during this turbulent weather phase. Stay informed and stay safe!