Lagatar24 Desk
New Delhi: The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued a heatwave warning for parts of Uttar Pradesh and Rajasthan, even as over 20 states remain under an alert for thunderstorms, gusty winds, and light rain through May 18. Temperatures are expected to soar up to 46°C in some regions, while other parts brace for relief via pre-monsoon showers.
Heatwave grips north India as Delhi sees poor air quality
As of Friday afternoon, Delhi recorded 39.4°C, with maximum temperatures expected to touch 41°C between May 16 and 18. Despite not being under a heat or rain alert, the capital is recovering from a dust storm caused by westerly winds carrying dust from northern Pakistan. Delhi’s Air Quality Index was in the ‘poor’ category at 297 by 9 am on Friday, per the IMD.
In Uttar Pradesh, 13 districts including Lucknow, Varanasi, Ghaziabad, Prayagraj, and Ballia are under an ‘Orange Alert’, with temperatures hovering around 41°C. The IMD has warned of heightened risk of heat-related illness, urging people to take precautions, especially for children, the elderly, and those with chronic illnesses.
Rajasthan sizzles, thunderstorms offer patchy relief
Rajasthan continues to face extreme heat, with Sri Ganganagar recording 45.8°C in the past 24 hours. The IMD forecasts thunderstorms at 40-50 kmph and light rain over parts of Udaipur and Kota, while strong dusty winds will likely sweep through Jodhpur and Bikaner divisions.
From May 16 to 20, temperatures in Bikaner and Sri Ganganagar are expected to remain between 45-46°C, while most other parts of the state may see highs of 42-44°C. Northern Rajasthan could receive some thunderstorms and rain between May 19-20.
Widespread alerts across eastern and southern India
Between May 17-18, alerts remain in place for states including Uttarakhand, Madhya Pradesh, West Bengal, Odisha, Andhra Pradesh, Tamil Nadu, Assam, Manipur, and Mizoram. Thunderstorms, lightning, and strong surface winds are expected in these regions, according to the IMD.
Longer, harsher summer predicted this year
The IMD has indicated that India may experience more heatwave days in May than usual. April 2025 was the 50th driest since 1901, yet parts of central and southern India saw substantial rainfall. The country recorded the 8th highest maximum and 9th highest minimum April temperatures since record-keeping began. Western India, especially Rajasthan and Gujarat, bore the brunt of the heat, witnessing 6 to 11 heatwave days—much higher than the average of 2-3.
