Severe heatwave to grip north and central India, IMD issues warning

India is likely to face an intense spell of heat in the coming days as the India Meteorological Department (IMD) has warned of severe heatwave conditions across large parts of northwest and central India. According to the weather department, many states may experience very high temperatures this week, especially Uttar Pradesh, Delhi, Punjab, Haryana, Madhya Pradesh and nearby areas.

The IMD said heatwave to severe heatwave conditions are expected to continue in parts of Uttar Pradesh till May 24. Several areas in north and central India are likely to experience extremely hot weather, with temperatures staying much higher than normal.

Officials said the heat could become dangerous, especially for children, elderly people, outdoor workers and those already suffering from health problems. Experts are urging people to stay careful, avoid direct sunlight and drink enough water during this period.

The warning comes after several parts of the country recorded temperatures much above normal in recent days. Some places saw temperatures rise between 3 and 6 degrees Celsius higher than average. States such as Madhya Pradesh, Gujarat, Uttar Pradesh, Rajasthan, Bihar and Himachal Pradesh have already reported unusually hot weather.

Weather experts said earlier heatwaves in northwest India reduced quickly because of thunderstorms and rainfall. However, this time, there is no major weather system expected to bring immediate relief.

The southwest monsoon has moved further ahead in some southern regions, including the Andaman and Nicobar Islands and parts of the Bay of Bengal. But most of northern India is still expected to remain dry and extremely hot.

IMD Director General M Mohapatra warned that severe and widespread heatwave conditions are likely, especially in Uttar Pradesh. He advised people to prepare in advance and take safety measures seriously.

Heatwave likely to affect many states

The IMD said heatwave conditions may continue in several states during the week. Jammu and Kashmir, Ladakh and parts of Maharashtra may experience hot weather on Monday and Tuesday. Punjab, Haryana, Chandigarh, Delhi and Madhya Pradesh are expected to face heatwave conditions until May 24.

Hot weather is also likely in Vidarbha, Chhattisgarh, Telangana, Bihar and coastal Andhra Pradesh over the next few days. West Uttar Pradesh may face severe heatwave conditions till May 24, while East Uttar Pradesh could experience extreme heat between May 19 and May 20.

The weather department also warned of warm nights in some areas of West Uttar Pradesh. Normally, temperatures cool down after sunset, but during heatwaves, nights can remain uncomfortable and hot, making it harder for people to recover from daytime heat.

At the same time, Odisha and some coastal areas may experience hot and humid conditions. Humidity often makes temperatures feel worse because sweating becomes less effective in cooling the body.

Although most areas are expected to stay dry, some hill states may receive light rainfall and thunderstorms. Jammu and Kashmir, Uttarakhand and Himachal Pradesh may see isolated rainfall, lightning and gusty winds over the next few days.

Strong winds are also expected in Punjab, Haryana, Delhi and Uttar Pradesh. According to IMD, wind speeds may reach up to 40 kilometres per hour in some places.

The IMD has issued an orange alert for many parts of northwest and central India. An orange alert means people should stay prepared because weather conditions may affect daily life and health.

Health experts say prolonged exposure to heat can lead to problems such as dehydration, weakness, headaches, heat exhaustion and heatstroke. People who spend long hours outdoors, including farmers, labourers, delivery workers and traffic police personnel, may face higher risk.

Infants, elderly people and those with diabetes, heart disease or breathing problems are also more vulnerable during heatwaves.

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Farmers and workers advised to stay prepared

The heatwave warning has also raised concerns for farming activities in several states. In its agricultural advisory, IMD advised farmers to protect crops from extreme heat and water stress.

Farmers in Punjab were asked to give light and frequent irrigation to vegetables, fruits, onion nurseries and moong crops. In Haryana, authorities advised proper irrigation for standing crops like sugarcane, cotton and summer fodder.

In Uttar Pradesh, farmers were advised to provide frequent watering and mulching to crops such as maize, sunflower, sugarcane, green gram, black gram and vegetables. Fruit plants including mango, banana and papaya may also require extra care during the heatwave.

Mulching, which involves covering soil to preserve moisture, may help reduce water loss and protect crops from drying out quickly.

Climate experts also stressed the importance of preparing before extreme heat becomes severe. Specialists say heat action plans should begin early instead of reacting after people already start suffering.

Experts believe better warning systems, public awareness and cooling facilities are important to reduce heat-related illness and deaths. Cooling centres, drinking water stations and shaded rest areas may help people who spend time outdoors.

Special attention is also being recommended for workers in informal jobs who often work under direct sunlight without enough protection. Experts say employers should provide regular water breaks, shaded resting areas and flexible work timings to reduce health risks.

Health specialists advise people to avoid stepping out during afternoon hours, wear loose cotton clothes, stay hydrated and eat light meals. Using caps, umbrellas or scarves while outdoors may also help protect against direct sunlight.

As temperatures continue to rise, officials say public awareness and early precautions will play a major role in reducing heat-related health problems. With no immediate rain expected in most northern states, people are being advised to remain alert and prepared for several more days of intense summer heat.