Severe Heatwave Alert: High Temperatures Scorch Over Half of India | Heatwave Forecast & Safety Advisory

A relentless heatwave in India has left the nation battling intense heat, pushing temperatures above 40°C across more than half of the country. From the heart of central India to the eastern plains and peninsular interiors, scorching conditions are sweeping across states with little to no respite in sight.

States in India under the Heatwave conditions

Most parts of India are currently battling an intense heat wave, with temperatures soaring beyond 40°C in multiple states.

Regions such as Madhya Pradesh, Rajasthan, Uttar Pradesh, Vidarbha, Bihar, Odisha, Jharkhand, Gangetic West Bengal, Punjab, Haryana, Delhi, Chhattisgarh, Madhya Maharashtra, Marathwada, interior Karnataka, and Telangana are experiencing severe heat conditions.

This heatwave is not isolated — it’s widespread and severe, with several cities reaching alarmingly high figures.

City-Wise Heatwave Extremes

Here is a list of cities worst hit by the heatwave, along with their recorded temperatures:

Jharsuguda (Odisha): 45.4°C (highest)

Akola (Maharashtra): 45.0°C

Nizamabad (Telangana): 44.5°C

Nagpur (Maharashtra): 44.4°C

Adilabad (Telangana): 44.3°C

Ratlam (Madhya Pradesh): 44.2°C

Parbhani (Maharashtra): 44.1°C

Banda (Uttar Pradesh): 44.0°C

Several other cities, including Bilaspur, Sambalpur, Solapur, Surendranagar, Barmer, Rajkot, Medak, Bhuj, Hoshangabad, Khajuraho, Mandla, Raipur, Daltonganj, Jalgaon, Jeur, Malegaon, and Nandyal, are seeing temperatures between 43°C and 44°C.

Heatwave Weather Forecast: More Heat Ahead

The Northwest, Gujarat, and East India regions are expected to witness a further rise in temperatures in the coming days. A Western Disturbance over the Western Himalayas has triggered a cyclonic circulation over Central Pakistan, leading to hot, dry winds from Sindh, Balochistan, and the Thar Desert sweeping into Haryana, Delhi, Rajasthan, Gujarat, Madhya Pradesh, and Maharashtra. As a result, these states will experience even hotter and drier conditions with intense sunlight.

Why Is This Happening?

A combination of meteorological patterns is driving the extreme heat. A Western Disturbance has moved into the Western Himalayas, inducing a cyclonic circulation over Central Pakistan. This system is drawing hot and dry winds from Sindh, Balochistan, and the Thar Desert, which are sweeping across Haryana, Delhi, Rajasthan, Gujarat, Madhya Pradesh, and Maharashtra. As a result, the region is experiencing clear skies, dry air, and uninterrupted sunshine — ideal conditions for a heatwave to thrive.

The next few days could see temperatures rising further, especially in Northwest India, East India, and Gujarat.

Heatwave & Sunstroke Advisory: How to Stay Safe

As the mercury rises, so do the risks of heatstroke and sunstroke, both of which can be life-threatening. Here’s how to stay safe:

Dos:

Stay Hydrated: Drink plenty of water, even if you’re not thirsty. Consume Electrolytes if sweating a lot and/or feeling dehydrated as per WHO

Wear Light Clothes: Prefer loose-fitting, light-colored, and breathable clothing.

Stay Indoors: Avoid stepping out between 12 PM and 4 PM, the hottest part of the day.

Use Umbrellas & Hats: If you must go out, wear a hat or use an umbrella.

Eat Light: Opt for fresh fruits and vegetables; avoid heavy or fried foods.

Cool Showers: Take cool showers or sponge baths to regulate body temperature.

Don’ts:

Avoid Alcohol & Caffeine: They can dehydrate you further.

Don’t Exercise Outdoors: Postpone heavy physical activity to early morning or late evening.

Do Not Leave Kids/Pets in Parked Vehicles: Even a few minutes can be dangerous.

Avoid Direct Sun Exposure: Especially for infants, the elderly, and people with chronic illnesses.

Watch for Symptoms of Heat Stroke

If someone shows signs such as high body temperature, red/hot/dry skin, rapid pulse, dizziness, confusion, nausea, or unconsciousness, seek immediate medical help. Move them to a cool place, apply cold compresses, and hydrate if they are conscious.

As we face the brunt of nature’s fury, it’s vital for all of us to take preventive measures, stay informed, and look out for one another. The heat may be harsh, but with the right actions, we can stay safe and healthy.