New Delhi, India — April 25, 2026
India is bracing for an intense spell of extreme heat as weather officials warn that rising temperatures, coupled with emerging El Niño conditions, could trigger severe heatwaves across large parts of the country over the next several days.
According to the India Meteorological Department, northwestern and central regions are likely to experience extreme heatwave conditions for the next three to four days, with temperatures already soaring above seasonal averages.
Heatwave Intensifies Across Northern Plains
The plains of northwestern India—including Delhi, Haryana, Punjab, Rajasthan, and western Uttar Pradesh—are witnessing scorching conditions, with hot winds and blazing sunlight making outdoor activity increasingly difficult.
In New Delhi and surrounding NCR regions, pollution combined with rising temperatures has worsened living conditions, with residents facing intense heat as early as mid-morning.
Authorities say the heatwave is expected to persist, with little immediate relief in sight.
Central India Also Under Severe Heat Stress
States such as Madhya Pradesh, Chhattisgarh, and parts of Vidarbha are also experiencing prolonged heatwave conditions, with daytime temperatures ranging between 40°C and 45°C.
The IMD has cautioned that continued exposure could pose health risks, particularly for vulnerable populations.
Relief in Hills and Northeast
While plains continue to swelter, parts of the Himalayan region and northeastern India are seeing rainfall, thunderstorms, and even snowfall in higher altitudes, bringing temporary relief from rising temperatures.
States including Jammu & Kashmir, Uttarakhand, Assam, and Arunachal Pradesh are likely to witness unstable weather conditions.
El Niño Likely to Return
Global climate agencies have raised concerns about the possible return of El Niño conditions later this year.
The World Meteorological Organization (WMO) has indicated that El Niño conditions could develop between May and July 2026, with early signs already emerging.
This climate pattern, characterized by warming sea surface temperatures in the central and eastern Pacific Ocean, can disrupt global weather systems—often leading to heatwaves, erratic rainfall, and extreme climate events.
Rising Temperatures Across India
Recent data shows that sea surface temperatures are increasing rapidly, pointing toward a warmer-than-normal climate phase in the coming months.
The WMO noted that while climate change does not directly cause El Niño, it can amplify its impacts, increasing the likelihood of extreme heat and heavy rainfall events.
Uttar Pradesh Among Worst Affected
Several cities in Uttar Pradesh have reported severe heatwave conditions.
- Prayagraj recorded 45.2°C, the highest in the state
- Banda: 44.3°C
- Hamirpur: 44.2°C
Cities including Varanasi, Agra, Meerut, Aligarh, and Shahjahanpur also faced intense hot winds, with streets largely deserted during peak afternoon hours.
Advisory and Precautions
The IMD has issued alerts for multiple states, urging residents to take precautions:
- Avoid stepping out between 12 PM and 4 PM
- Stay hydrated and wear light clothing
- Avoid strenuous outdoor activities
- Take special care of children and elderly individuals
Outlook
With El Niño signals strengthening and temperatures already rising, experts warn that India could face a prolonged and intense summer season. Weather conditions are expected to remain extreme in the coming days, particularly across northern and central regions.
