Heatwave Alert: Maharashtra, Gujarat to Face More Scorching Days from April to June
Heatwave Alert: Maharashtra, Gujarat to Face More Scorching Days from April to June
India is likely to experience a higher-than-usual number of heatwave days this year, especially across northern plains, eastern coastal regions, and western states like Gujarat and Maharashtra, according to the India Meteorological Department (IMD).
IMD Director General Mrutyunjay Mohapatra said that several regions are naturally prone to extreme heat during this time of the year. In areas like Vidarbha in Maharashtra, temperatures typically hover between 41°C and 42°C, while parts of Uttar Pradesh and Haryana often see mercury levels rising up to 44°C in May.
He emphasized that even regions not officially classified under heatwave conditions may still record temperatures above 40°C, urging people to stay prepared for intense heat in the coming weeks.
To help vulnerable groups cope with rising temperatures, the IMD has stepped up its outreach efforts. The department is using WhatsApp groups to share real-time weather updates with outdoor workers such as street vendors and agricultural labourers. Additionally, public display boards have been installed in various locations to inform people about heat conditions and safety measures.
The IMD is also working with government systems like the Common Alert Protocol under the National Disaster Management Authority to ensure weather alerts reach as many people as possible. However, Mohapatra acknowledged that some communities still lack access to mobile-based alerts, and more efforts are needed to reach them through alternative means.
Highlighting a successful initiative from last year, he mentioned how associations of rickshaw pullers, domestic workers, and street vendors in Delhi received heat alerts via WhatsApp, which were then shared among their members. Informational display boards further supported awareness on the ground.
The IMD continues to issue detailed forecasts to keep citizens informed. Seasonal outlooks are released in advance, followed by four-week forecasts every Thursday, along with daily district-level warnings during peak summer.
According to the latest forecast, heatwave conditions are expected between April and June across several regions. These include eastern coastal states like West Bengal, Odisha, and Andhra Pradesh, along with nearby areas such as Chhattisgarh and Telangana.
The Indo-Gangetic plains—covering Haryana, Uttar Pradesh, Bihar, and Jharkhand—are also likely to face severe heat. In addition, parts of Rajasthan, Gujarat, Madhya Pradesh, and northern Maharashtra are expected to experience similar conditions.
With temperatures set to rise steadily before the arrival of the monsoon, authorities are urging people to stay cautious and take necessary precautions to avoid heat-related illnesses.
