Heatwave scorches India: Over 20 cities cross 42°C in early April, Delhi boils at 40°C, road in Mumbai 'melts'

Heatwave

The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has raised multiple alerts, warning of dangerously high temperatures, warm nights, and the risk of heat-related illnesses in several parts of India. From Delhi to Maharashtra, the major part of the country is witnessing extreme weather patterns.

States in the grip of heat

Several states are bearing the brunt of the heatwave. The IMD has flagged regions including Delhi, Rajasthan, Punjab, Haryana, Gujarat, and Madhya Pradesh for extreme weather conditions. As of early April, 27 weather stations across Gujarat, Rajasthan, Maharashtra, and Madhya Pradesh recorded temperatures at or above 43°C, with at least 19 of them falling into the “heatwave to severe heatwave” category.

In Rajasthan and Gujarat, daytime temperatures have remained consistently high, often exceeding 44°C. Cities like Rajasthan’s Barmer recorded 46.4°C, Jalgaon in Maharashtra touched 42.5°C, while Delhi recorded 40°C on Wednesday noon and 25.6°C at night, making it the warmest April night in three years. The national capital’s air quality has also deteriorated, with the AQI reaching a poor level of 209.

April heat is unusually intense

It is only the beginning of April, yet more than 20 cities across India have already surpassed 42°C, indicating a long summer ahead. Delhi, Uttar Pradesh, and parts of Rajasthan are at the forefront of this heat crisis.

In Uttar Pradesh, the IMD has projected that temperatures will remain above 40°C through April, May, and June, with the Bundelkhand region expected to be hit the hardest.

Melting roads in Maharashtra

Mumbai recorded a high of 34°C on Wednesday with extremely high humidity levels. A road near the BMC (Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation) headquarters reportedly melted due to the excess heat.

The IMD has issued a ‘yellow’ alert for Mumbai, warning of moderate health risks for vulnerable populations, especially elderly people, children, and outdoor workers.

Unpredictable weather patterns in South India

While the northern and central states deal with blazing heat, southern India is facing erratic and contrasting weather. Telangana has reported unusual weather patterns, with intense heat in cities like Hyderabad and Nizamabad, while sporadic showers have cooled parts of the state.

Meanwhile, Andhra Pradesh is expected to experience thunderstorms, lightning, and gusty winds till April 13. The IMD attributes these phenomena to a low-pressure area and a cyclonic circulation over the Bay of Bengal. While these storms may provide temporary respite, they also introduce the risk of flash floods and wind damage.