India's Wild Weather Swing: From 45°C to Thunderstorms in Hours
India's Wild Weather Swing: 45°C to Thunderstorms in Hours

India is witnessing a dramatic weather swing, with temperatures soaring above 45°C in some regions while thunderstorms and hailstorms lash others. The Indian Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued multiple alerts for heatwave, heavy rain, and strong winds across the country.

Severe Heatwave Continues in North and Central India

Severe heatwave conditions are expected to persist in many northern and central states, including Delhi, Uttar Pradesh, and Rajasthan, causing harsh daytime conditions. Akola in Maharashtra recorded the country's highest temperature of 46.9°C, highlighting extreme heat conditions affecting several regions and increasing risks for outdoor travel and daily activities.

IMD Heatwave Warnings

The IMD has issued heatwave to severe heatwave alerts for several states, including Punjab, Haryana, Madhya Pradesh, and Gujarat, warning of continued high temperatures. Parts of Uttar Pradesh, Haryana, Madhya Pradesh, and Chhattisgarh are likely to experience warm nights, giving little relief as temperatures remain high even after sunset.

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Temperature Drop Expected

The IMD predicts a fall of 2–5°C in maximum temperatures across several regions, including northwest and central India, bringing gradual relief from ongoing severe heat conditions.

Hailstorm and Thunderstorm Alerts

Isolated hailstorms are forecast over Gangetic West Bengal and Jharkhand, which may damage crops, vehicles, and create unsafe travel conditions in affected areas. Wind speeds of 50–70 kmph and thundersqualls are likely in West Bengal, Bihar, Jharkhand, and Odisha, which may disrupt transport, power supply, and outdoor activities.

Heavy Rain in Northeast and Southern India

Northeast India is expected to receive widespread rainfall with thunderstorms and lightning till early May, affecting normal life and travel across the region. States like Telangana, Karnataka, Kerala, and Madhya Pradesh are expected to see light to moderate rain with thunderstorms, lightning, and gusty winds throughout the week. Arunachal Pradesh, Assam, Meghalaya, Nagaland, Manipur, Mizoram, and Tripura may witness heavy to very heavy rainfall, increasing chances of waterlogging and travel disruptions.

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