New Delhi, India — April 27, 2026
A severe heatwave continues to grip large parts of northwest and central India, with temperatures soaring above 45°C (113°F) in several regions, according to the India Meteorological Department. Authorities have warned that there will be no immediate relief for at least the next three days, urging residents to take precautionary measures.
The weather pattern across the country remains sharply divided. While northwestern and central states battle extreme heat and dry winds, northeastern India is bracing for heavy to very heavy rainfall accompanied by thunderstorms and lightning.
🌡️ Heatwave Intensifies Across North India
The IMD reported that maximum temperatures across Jammu & Kashmir, Punjab, Haryana, Delhi, Uttar Pradesh, and Rajasthan are consistently ranging between 40°C and 45°C (104°F–113°F).
Parts of West Madhya Pradesh and Vidarbha are also experiencing intense hot winds, worsening daytime conditions. The heatwave has extended into nighttime hours, with “warm night conditions” recorded in several areas, leaving residents with little relief even after sunset.
🔥 Hottest Cities Recorded
- Banda (Uttar Pradesh) recorded the highest temperature in the country at 46.6°C (115.9°F)
- Barmer and Jaisalmer (Rajasthan) followed at 46°C (114.8°F)
- Prayagraj (Uttar Pradesh) reached 45.7°C (114.3°F)
- Kota and Chittorgarh (Rajasthan) reported 45.2°C (113.3°F)
In Punjab and Haryana, cities like Narnaul (44.2°C), Rohtak (43.6°C), and Bathinda (43.7°C) also faced extreme heat conditions.
🌙 Hot Nights Add to Discomfort
Regions in Uttar Pradesh, Haryana, and Madhya Pradesh are witnessing unusually high minimum temperatures, creating “hot night” conditions. This phenomenon significantly increases health risks, especially for vulnerable populations, as the body gets little time to recover from daytime heat.
🌧️ Heavy Rainfall Alert in Northeast & East India
In contrast, northeastern states including Arunachal Pradesh, Assam, Meghalaya, Nagaland, Manipur, Mizoram, and Tripura are expected to witness intense rainfall from April 27 to May 2.
The IMD has issued warnings for:
- Heavy to very heavy rainfall
- Thunderstorms and lightning
- Strong winds up to 70 km/h (43 mph)
Eastern states such as Bihar, Jharkhand, West Bengal, and Odisha may also experience thunderstorms and gusty winds during this period.
🌦️ Possible Relief After April 28
Meteorologists indicate that temperatures in northwest India may drop by 3°C to 5°C (5°F–9°F) after April 28. Additionally, light rain and dust storms are expected to increase from April 29, potentially offering partial relief from the intense heat.
⚠️ Safety Advisory Issued
Authorities have urged the public to follow safety guidelines during extreme weather conditions:
- Avoid stepping out during peak afternoon hours
- Wear light, loose-fitting clothing
- Stay hydrated and drink plenty of water
- Cover your head when outdoors
- Seek shelter during thunderstorms; avoid open areas
🏔️ Himachal Pradesh Weather Outlook
The IMD has forecast rain and thunderstorms in Himachal Pradesh between April 28 and April 30, particularly in districts like Kangra, Kullu, Chamba, Shimla, and Kinnaur. Strong winds during this period could disrupt normal life, and residents are advised to remain cautious.
📊 Key Takeaways
- Heatwave pushes temperatures above 45°C (113°F) in northwestern India
- No relief expected for at least three days
- Banda emerges as the hottest city at 46.6°C
- Northeast India faces heavy rainfall and storm alerts
- Slight temperature drop expected after April 28
