Heatwave in North India: IMD issues severe alert, temperature to rise above 45° today

In a post on X, the IMD said, "Extreme Maximum temperatures reported on 17th May, 2024 as per National Data Centre, India Meteorological Department."

Across the plains of north west India, a maximum temperature of 45 degrees is expected over the next five days, the IMD further added. So far, this season's maximum temperature has been recorded at 46.2 degrees in Phalodi, Rajasthan, on May 9.

The Met Department states that heatwave conditions arise when the maximum temperature rises to 45 degrees Celsius, or 4.5 degrees above usual. Delhi reached a maximum temperature of 43.7 degrees Celsius in May 2023, however there was no heatwave that month.

Highlighting the meteorological trends, senior IMD scientist Dr. Naresh Kumar told ANI, "From April until recent days, continuous western disturbances influenced Northwest India, resulting in isolated rainfall in parts of Jammu and Kashmir, Himachal Pradesh, and Uttarakhand, thereby keeping temperatures relatively moderate. However, May saw temperatures soar, reaching up to 45 degrees Celsius in numerous locations across the country."

The IMD recommended that individuals "wear lightweight and loose cotton clothes" and stay out of the heat. According to IMD, it's advisable to protect your head with an umbrella, hat, or piece of cloth.

IMD's forecast for South India

Meanwhile, heavy rainfall is forecast across southern peninsular India, especially in Tamil Nadu and Kerala. The advancement of south west monsoon will likely happen during the week starting May 23.

IMD said light to moderate rainfall with thunderstorm, lightning, and gusty winds are expected over Tamil Nadu, Puducherry, Karaikal, Kerala, Mahe, Lakshadweep, and south Karnataka in the next few days.

Also read: IMD warns of heatwave over next five days across Rajasthan, Delhi, UP, Haryana