Worst heatwave ahead? IMD warns of 43°C+ temperatures across UP, MP, Rajasthan; Severe conditions to grip many states this week. Check full forecast

The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued a heatwave alert in India, warning that maximum temperatures across northwest India are likely to rise by 2–4°C over the coming week. The rising temperatures in India are expected to impact key states including Rajasthan, Madhya Pradesh, and Uttar Pradesh starting April 20.

According to weather updates, parts of north India heatwave regions are likely to experience severe heatwave conditions, raising concerns over public health and heat-related illnesses.

Heatwave Conditions Across States: Uttar Pradesh, Rajasthan, Madhya Pradesh on Alert

The IMD has forecast intense heatwave conditions in India across multiple regions:

• East Uttar Pradesh, East Rajasthan, East Madhya Pradesh: April 20–23
• West Uttar Pradesh: April 20–22
• West Rajasthan: April 20–23
• Jharkhand: April 20–21
• Punjab, Haryana, Chandigarh: April 21–23
• Odisha heatwave conditions: April 21–23

Additionally, isolated heatwave warnings in central India have been issued for West Madhya Pradesh, Chhattisgarh, and Vidarbha on April 20.

These forecasts highlight a growing India heatwave crisis, with several regions expected to face prolonged exposure to extreme temperatures.

Delhi AQI Today and Weather Conditions

In Delhi, the Air Quality Index (AQI) stood at 198 at 8 am on Monday, indicating moderate to poor air quality conditions. The combination of rising heat and deteriorating air quality is expected to further impact daily life and health conditions.

Hot and Humid Weather Across South and East India

Apart from the north India heatwave, hot and humid weather conditions in India are expected to persist in:

• Kerala
• Tamil Nadu
• Coastal Karnataka
• Gangetic West Bengal

These conditions are likely to continue until April 25, increasing discomfort levels and raising the risk of heat stress and dehydration.

Meanwhile, warm night conditions in India are expected in parts of Odisha and Haryana, making recovery from daytime heat more difficult.

Chhattisgarh Heatwave: Temperatures Cross 43°C

A severe heatwave in Chhattisgarh continues to intensify, with temperatures in Raipur crossing 43°C. The IMD has issued a yellow alert in Chhattisgarh amid rising temperatures and increasing heat stress.

Meteorologists warn that the Chhattisgarh heatwave conditions are likely to persist over the next few days, although a slight dip in temperature may provide limited relief.

Western Disturbance to Bring Relief from Heatwave

In a potential respite, a western disturbance in India is expected to affect the region from April 23. This weather system may bring:

• Rainfall and thunderstorms
• Strong winds
• Possible hailstorms

Regions including Jammu and Kashmir, Ladakh, Himachal Pradesh, Punjab, and Haryana may witness rainfall and snowfall activity, offering temporary relief from the ongoing heatwave.

Heatwave Safety Tips: IMD Advises Precautions

With the India heatwave 2026 intensifying, authorities have urged citizens to follow heatwave safety guidelines:

• Avoid direct sunlight during peak afternoon hours
• Stay hydrated and drink plenty of fluids
• Wear light, breathable clothing
• Avoid strenuous outdoor activities
• Take precautions against heatstroke and dehydration

India Weather Update: Heatwave Concerns Grow Nationwide

The latest IMD weather update highlights the growing severity of heatwave conditions in India, with rising temperatures, humidity, and warm nights increasing discomfort across regions.

While the upcoming western disturbance weather system may bring short-term relief, experts warn that extreme heat events in India could continue in the coming weeks.

Inputs from TOI