A blistering heatwave continues to sweep across several parts of India, with the India Meteorological Department (IMD) warning of intensifying conditions in North and Central India until April 10. However, a short respite is on the horizon as light rainfall is forecast in various regions after this date, potentially easing the scorching temperatures.
Pune has not been spared, with Lohegaon recording a season-high temperature of 42.2°C. The IMD has strongly advised residents to avoid venturing out between 11 am and 4 pm as the city bakes under extreme heat.
The national capital is currently experiencing severe heat, with the IMD issuing a heatwave warning for Delhi-NCR over the next two days. On Monday, temperatures in Delhi surged to 40.2°C. IMD scientist Dr. Naresh Kumar noted that a light spell of rain is expected on April 11, which may bring temporary relief.
Medical professionals have advised residents, particularly vulnerable groups such as the elderly, children, and people with chronic illnesses, to avoid stepping outdoors during peak hours due to the risk of heat-related health issues, including muscle cramps, rashes, and heatstroke.
Regions including Punjab, Haryana, Chandigarh, Himachal Pradesh, West Uttar Pradesh, and Rajasthan are also under heatwave watch. Barmer in Rajasthan recorded the country’s highest temperature on Monday at a scorching 45.6°C. The oppressive heat is expected to ease post-April 10 as showers and cloud cover are likely to provide relief.
In Gujarat, Maharashtra, and Madhya Pradesh, heatwave conditions are being compounded by unusually warm nights. Meanwhile, coastal and southern states such as Tamil Nadu, Goa, Kerala, and Puducherry continue to grapple with hot and humid conditions.
Mumbai and its neighbouring districts—Thane, Palghar, Raigad, Ratnagiri, and Sindhudurg—remain under a yellow alert due to persistent hot and humid weather. Residents are being urged to stay indoors during peak hours and stay hydrated.
While North and Central India battle heat, northeastern states like Assam, Arunachal Pradesh, and Meghalaya are expected to witness thunderstorms and lightning until April 12, due to a low-pressure system over the Bay of Bengal. Isolated hailstorms are also forecast in Jammu & Kashmir and Himachal Pradesh on April 9 as a fresh western disturbance rolls in.
Karnataka, which experienced significant rainfall in late March, is also expected to receive showers in Bengaluru until April 12. Meanwhile, Odisha is set for widespread thunderstorms and heavy rain over the next three days, with a yellow alert issued in districts such as Rayagada, Koraput, Mayurbhanj, and Kalahandi.
The IMD has urged the public across affected regions to limit outdoor activity, wear light clothing, and stay hydrated. Those especially at risk—senior citizens, children, pregnant women, and individuals with existing health conditions—should take extra precautions as temperatures remain dangerously high across many parts of the country.