India Heatwave Alert: Temperatures Cross 45°C in Delhi; IMD Warns of Severe Heat Across Multiple States

New Delhi, India — April 20, 2026

Large parts of India are reeling under an intense heatwave, with temperatures soaring past 45°C in the national capital and several states facing extreme weather conditions. The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued a nationwide alert, warning that the heat is likely to intensify further in the coming weeks.

According to IMD projections, temperatures between April and June are expected to remain significantly above normal across multiple regions, raising concerns over public health, agriculture, and daily life.

IMD Warns of Prolonged and Above-Normal Summer

IMD Director General Mrutyunjay Mohapatra stated that earlier forecasts had already indicated a hotter-than-usual summer, with several regions likely to experience prolonged heatwave conditions.

The agency has cautioned that sustained high temperatures and dry conditions could lead to extended periods of extreme heat, especially in northern, central, and eastern parts of the country.

Regions Likely to Be Worst Affected

Eastern and Southern India

States such as West Bengal, Odisha, Andhra Pradesh, Chhattisgarh, and Telangana are expected to witness frequent heatwave conditions, with rising daytime temperatures and high humidity levels.

Northern Plains

The Indo-Gangetic belt, including Uttar Pradesh, Bihar, Jharkhand, and Haryana, is likely to face intense heat spells, with both day and night temperatures remaining unusually high.

Western and Central India

Regions in Rajasthan, Gujarat, Madhya Pradesh, and parts of Maharashtra are also expected to experience scorching heat, hot winds, and prolonged dry conditions.

Uttar Pradesh: April Feels Like Peak Summer

In Uttar Pradesh, the heat has intensified to levels typically seen in June. The IMD has issued heatwave warnings for at least 11 districts in Bundelkhand and southern regions.

Additionally, “warm night” conditions have been forecast for districts such as Saharanpur, Shamli, and Muzaffarnagar, where nighttime temperatures remain unusually high, offering little relief.

Madhya Pradesh: Temperatures Approach 45°C

Madhya Pradesh is witnessing a rapid escalation in heat intensity. Several cities have already recorded temperatures above 42°C.

The highest temperature was reported in Nowgong (Chhatarpur district) at 44.3°C, marking one of the season’s peak readings so far.

Rajasthan: Heatwave Alert Issued

Rajasthan has already begun experiencing severe heatwave conditions, with temperatures exceeding 42°C in multiple cities.

The regional weather center in Jaipur has issued a yellow alert for the next three to four days, warning of continued heatwave conditions and extreme daytime temperatures.

Bihar: Rising Temperatures Across Districts

Bihar is also grappling with intense heat, with several districts recording temperatures above 40°C:

• Rohtas: 43.0°C
• Gaya: 42.8°C
• Buxar: 42.7°C
• Aurangabad: 41.8°C
• Nalanda: 41.5°C

The capital Patna and surrounding regions are also witnessing sustained high temperatures, contributing to heatwave-like conditions.

Haryana: Rohtak Records Highest Temperature

In Haryana, Rohtak emerged as the hottest location, recording 42.3°C — nearly 5 degrees above normal.

Weather experts indicate that clear skies and dry conditions will persist for the next week, likely pushing temperatures even higher. Some areas, including Karnal, are already experiencing heatwave conditions.

Health Advisory: Precautions Urged

Authorities have urged citizens to take precautions to avoid heat-related illnesses. Key recommendations include:

• Avoid outdoor activities during peak afternoon hours
• Stay hydrated and drink plenty of fluids
• Wear light-colored, loose cotton clothing
• Take special care of children, elderly individuals, and those with health conditions

The IMD emphasized that timely precautions are essential to minimize the health risks associated with prolonged exposure to extreme heat.