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Was it really just two weeks ago that April saw that glorious, unexpected dip in temperature? Gifts like cool breeze and morning showers seem like a thing of the very distant past as India sizzles amid a particularly brutal global heatwave. Even by Indian standards, where heat and humidity are part of everyday life, this season has come in harder and earlier than expected. With reports suggesting that 95 of the world’s 100 hottest cities are currently in India, the country is right at the centre of a difficult situation.
How bad is it and how long's it going to last? We've broken it down for you so you can plan your coming weeks accordingly.
How hot is it getting?
In several parts of northern and central India, temperatures are crossing 45°C, with some areas expected to exceed 46°C in the coming days. Even regions that are usually cooler, such as hill states, are experiencing unusually high temperatures.
Which regions are worst affected?
North India: States like Uttar Pradesh, Punjab, and Haryana are facing extreme heat. Cities such as Banda, Bindki, Auraiya, and Fatehpur are among the hottest.
Central India: Madhya Pradesh, including places like Gohad, is seeing above-normal temperatures.
Western India: Maharashtra cities like Amravati, Bhusawal, and Nanded are experiencing severe heat. Rajasthan is also under stress, though some rain is expected.
Eastern India: Odisha (Rajgangpur, Balangir), Bihar, Jharkhand, and West Bengal are also witnessing high temperatures.
South India: Coastal Tamil Nadu and Kerala are facing hot and humid conditions, while Adilabad in Telangana has recorded very high temperatures.
Is any relief expected?
There may be some temporary relief in parts of western India. The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has forecast rainfall starting April 28 in some regions, particularly in Rajasthan, where thunderstorms and gusty winds are possible. Additionally, parts of Northeast India, including Arunachal Pradesh, Assam, and Meghalaya, may receive heavy rainfall.
What's the situation in Delhi-NCR?
Delhi and surrounding areas are experiencing higher-than-normal temperatures. The IMD has issued a yellow alert, warning residents to be cautious and prepared for sudden weather changes. The peak of the heatwave is still expected.
Why does it feel worse in some places even at lower temperatures?
In regions like Kerala, high humidity makes the heat feel more oppressive. Moisture in the air reduces the body’s ability to cool itself, increasing discomfort and health risks.
Are authorities taking any measures?
Extreme heat's a dangerous thing and can lead to some pretty serious issues – heatstroke, dehydration, skin irritation – if you're overexposed. In some areas, schools have announced early summer holidays to protect students. Authorities are also issuing advisories urging people to limit outdoor activity, especially in the afternoon.
What can I do to keep myself occupied indoors?
It almost seems like Mumbai and Delhi saw the heatwave coming, or is it coincidence that some of the best stuff to do this weekend in both cities happens to be indoors? Check out this week's calendar for Delhi and Mumbai to plan a safe weekend that doesn't involve sweating your bum off outside.