New Delhi, India — May 25, 2026
Nautapa Heatwave Intensifies Across India as Temperatures Near 47°C, Relief Unlikely Before Friday
Nautapa Heatwave conditions tightened their grip across large parts of India on Monday as soaring temperatures, severe heatwave warnings, and dust storms pushed millions of people into extreme weather conditions. Even before the official start of Nautapa — the nine-day period traditionally associated with the year’s most intense summer heat — several states were already experiencing temperatures close to 47 degrees Celsius.
According to weather officials, maximum temperatures between 43°C and 47°C were recorded across parts of Uttar Pradesh, Delhi-NCR, Rajasthan, Gujarat, Maharashtra, Madhya Pradesh, Punjab, and Haryana. Maharashtra’s Brahmapuri region in Vidarbha emerged as the hottest location in the country, recording a blistering 47.1°C.
The India Meteorological Department (IMD) warned that the intense heat is expected to continue through Friday across much of northern and central India, with little immediate relief in sight.
Uttar Pradesh Faces Heatwave and Dust Storm Double Impact
Uttar Pradesh remains among the worst-affected states, dealing with both severe heatwave conditions and strong dust storms simultaneously. The IMD has issued a red alert for heatwave conditions in 10 districts and an orange alert in 23 others.
Banda recorded the highest temperature in the state at 46.8°C on Sunday, while Prayagraj, Jhansi, Orai, and Agra also saw temperatures climb above 45°C.
Authorities have advised residents to avoid unnecessary outdoor activity during peak afternoon hours, stay hydrated, and take precautions against heatstroke. Hospitals in several districts have also reported an increase in heat-related illnesses, including dehydration and fatigue.
Strong winds and dust storms have further complicated conditions in parts of the state, reducing visibility and affecting road traffic in several areas.
Why Nautapa Is Considered the Hottest Phase of Summer
The Nautapa Heatwave refers to a nine-day astronomical period when the sun is believed to shine directly over the Indian subcontinent with maximum intensity. Traditionally, this phase is associated with the harshest summer temperatures before the arrival of the southwest monsoon.
Meteorologists say this year’s heat arrived earlier and more aggressively than usual, with several regions already enduring prolonged heatwave conditions before Nautapa officially began.
Except for northeastern India, the western Himalayan region, and parts of southern India, most of the country recorded daytime temperatures between 40°C and 43°C over the weekend.
No Major Relief Expected Before Friday
Weather officials said widespread relief is unlikely before May 29. Rajasthan, Madhya Pradesh, Chhattisgarh, Gujarat, and Maharashtra are expected to continue experiencing extreme heat conditions over the next several days.
The IMD forecasts that weather patterns may begin to shift toward the end of the week, especially across northern India.
Delhi-NCR, western Uttar Pradesh, Punjab, Haryana, Uttarakhand, and Himachal Pradesh are expected to witness thunderstorms, gusty winds, and scattered rainfall starting May 29. Rain and storm activity could affect nearly 50% of these regions by Friday.
Meteorologists estimate that temperatures may fall by 3°C to 5°C following the expected weather change, potentially bringing temporary relief from the prolonged heatwave.
Monsoon Expected to Arrive Early in Kerala
In a positive development, the southwest monsoon is likely to make landfall over Kerala around May 26 — approximately four days earlier than the normal onset date.
Pre-monsoon rainfall has already intensified across Kerala, Lakshadweep, and the Andaman and Nicobar Islands. The IMD has forecast heavy rainfall over Kerala, Lakshadweep, Tamil Nadu, and parts of northeastern India over the next four to five days.
Heavy rain and thunderstorm alerts have also been issued for Assam, Meghalaya, Arunachal Pradesh, Sikkim, and the Himalayan regions of West Bengal.
Strong Winds and Hailstorms Reported in Several States
Several eastern and northeastern states witnessed severe weather activity over the past 24 hours. According to weather officials, parts of Assam, Meghalaya, Odisha, Jharkhand, and sub-Himalayan West Bengal experienced strong winds reaching speeds of 60 to 100 km/h, accompanied by heavy rainfall.
Meanwhile, Uttarakhand reported hailstorms in multiple districts, bringing temporary relief from the heat but also causing localized disruptions.
Rising Heat Raises Health and Power Demand Concerns
The ongoing Nautapa Heatwave has triggered concerns over public health, electricity demand, and water shortages in several urban and rural areas.
Experts warn that prolonged exposure to extreme heat can increase the risk of heatstroke, dehydration, and respiratory problems, especially among children, elderly citizens, and outdoor workers.
Power consumption has also surged as households and businesses rely heavily on air conditioning and cooling systems, putting additional pressure on electricity grids in multiple states.
With weather conditions expected to remain harsh for several more days, authorities continue urging citizens to follow heat safety advisories and stay updated on local weather alerts.
