India faces rising heatwave conditions across northern and central states while Northeast India sees mixed weather with rainfall and humid temperatures.
New Delhi, May 21: Large parts of India are witnessing rising temperatures and heatwave conditions this week, with the India Meteorological Department (IMD) issuing fresh warnings for several northern, western and central states even as parts of the Northeast continue to receive intermittent rainfall and thunderstorms.
According to recent IMD forecasts, heatwave to severe heatwave conditions are likely to persist across northwest and central India over the coming days, particularly in Rajasthan, Delhi, Punjab, Haryana, Uttar Pradesh and parts of Madhya Pradesh and Chhattisgarh. Temperatures in several cities have already crossed 44 degrees Celsius, prompting authorities to issue public health advisories.
The Centre has also stepped up preparedness measures amid concerns over heat-related illnesses. The Union Health Ministry and the Ministry of Ayush have issued advisories urging people to avoid direct exposure to the sun during peak afternoon hours, remain hydrated and take precautions against heatstroke. The advisories specifically mention children, elderly persons, outdoor workers and individuals with pre-existing illnesses as vulnerable groups.
Officials have directed states to strengthen heat action plans, ensure availability of oral rehydration solutions (ORS), activate dedicated heatstroke units in hospitals and disseminate real-time warnings to the public. Several state governments have already begun adjusting school timings, increasing water distribution points and preparing emergency medical response systems.
The IMD earlier projected above-normal heatwave days in several regions during May, particularly over the Himalayan foothills, Gujarat, Maharashtra and eastern coastal states. However, periodic pre-monsoon rainfall has prevented temperatures from rising uniformly across the country.
While northern and central India struggle with intense heat, the weather pattern in the Northeast has remained comparatively mixed due to pre-monsoon activity and advancing monsoon systems over the Bay of Bengal.
The IMD has forecast heavy rainfall, thunderstorms and gusty winds in parts of Arunachal Pradesh, Assam, Meghalaya and neighbouring states during the week. Some areas are also likely to witness lightning and localised strong winds.
Despite the relatively milder temperatures in many hill areas, experts say parts of the Northeast are still experiencing unusually warm and humid conditions, especially in valley regions and urban centres. The IMD’s seasonal outlook noted that southern parts of Northeast India could still record above-normal temperatures during the ongoing summer period, though rainfall activity may temporarily moderate extreme heat.
Weather officials said the early advancement of the southwest monsoon over sections of the Andaman Sea and Bay of Bengal could further influence weather conditions in the eastern and northeastern region in the coming days.
Experts have warned that rising temperatures, erratic rainfall and prolonged humidity are increasingly becoming part of changing climate patterns across India, affecting public health, agriculture and power consumption.
With the peak summer season still underway in many parts of the country, authorities have advised residents to stay updated with official weather bulletins and follow heat safety guidelines.
As temperatures continue to rise across several parts of India, including periods of unusual heat and humidity in parts of the Northeast, NE Dispatch advises readers to take necessary precautions to prevent heat-related illnesses.
Health experts recommend avoiding prolonged exposure to direct sunlight, especially between 11 am and 4 pm when temperatures are at their peak. Residents are advised to remain hydrated by drinking sufficient water and oral rehydration fluids even if they do not feel thirsty.
Children, elderly persons, pregnant women, outdoor workers and individuals with chronic illnesses are considered more vulnerable during extreme heat conditions. People are advised to wear light-coloured cotton clothing, avoid strenuous outdoor activities during peak hours and ensure proper ventilation indoors.
In the Northeast, where humid conditions often accompany rising temperatures, doctors also warn against dehydration and exhaustion caused by high moisture levels in the air. Sudden thunderstorms and lightning associated with pre-monsoon weather activity can also pose risks in several states.
NE Dispatch further advises:
Do not leave children or pets inside parked vehicles.
Carry drinking water while travelling.
Immediately seek medical attention in case of dizziness, confusion, rapid heartbeat or fainting.
Farmers and outdoor labourers should take frequent breaks in shaded areas.
Keep updated with official weather bulletins issued by the India Meteorological Department and local authorities.
Citizens are also encouraged to check on elderly neighbours and vulnerable individuals living alone during prolonged heat conditions.
