The India Meteorological Department (IMD) on Saturday warned that heatwave conditions are likely to persist across several parts of the country over the next seven days, particularly in regions spanning northwest, central and peninsular India.
The IMD, under the Ministry of Earth Sciences, has issued detailed advisories as temperatures continue to rise above normal levels in many areas.
According to the latest assessment, maximum temperatures across parts of northwest, central and peninsular India are currently ranging between 40°C and 44°C, with the highest temperature of 44.5°C recorded at Sri Ganganagar. In several regions, temperatures are running significantly above normal by 5°C or more, indicating intensifying heat stress conditions.
The IMD has forecast heatwave conditions in isolated pockets of Jammu and Kashmir, Himachal Pradesh, Punjab, Haryana, Chandigarh and Delhi, Uttar Pradesh, Rajasthan, and parts of central India over the coming days.
In addition, hot and humid conditions are expected to prevail over coastal and eastern regions, while warm night conditions in parts of north India are likely to aggravate discomfort and health risks.
The department has indicated that there will be no significant change in maximum temperatures over northwest India until April 27, after which a gradual decline is expected. However, central and other regions may witness a rise followed by a slight fall in temperatures during the forecast period.
In view of the prevailing conditions, the IMD has issued comprehensive safety guidelines, advising people to avoid prolonged exposure to direct sunlight, especially during peak afternoon hours, remain well-hydrated, wear light and breathable clothing, and limit strenuous outdoor activities.
Special caution has been advised for vulnerable groups, including children, the elderly, and those with pre-existing health conditions.
The IMD emphasised that early awareness and preventive measures are key to reducing heat-related illnesses such as heat exhaustion and heatstroke. Its extended outlook indicates that heatwave conditions will continue across parts of northwest India (including Punjab, Haryana, Delhi, Rajasthan and Uttar Pradesh), central India (Madhya Pradesh, Chhattisgarh and Vidarbha), and select southern regions such as Kerala and Mahe.
Hot and humid weather is also expected in coastal states including Odisha, West Bengal, Tamil Nadu and Andhra Pradesh, while warm night conditions may persist across the northern plains.
According to the IMD’s seasonal outlook for April to June 2026, above-normal heatwave days are likely over parts of east, central and northwest India, as well as the southeast peninsula, underscoring the need for continued preparedness.
The IMD has made detailed heatwave guidance, including do’s and don’ts, preparedness measures, and sector-specific advisories, available on its official website to support individuals, communities, and local administrations in minimising health risks and enhancing resilience against extreme heat conditions.
The department continues to closely monitor temperature trends and issue timely forecasts, advising citizens to stay updated through official channels and adhere to safety measures.