A prolonged spell of scorching heat is set to maintain its intensity over East and South Peninsular India for the next five days, according to the Indian Meteorological Department (IMD). The severe heatwave conditions are expected to persist across coastal Odisha, Gangetic West Bengal, and isolated pockets of Sub-Himalayan West Bengal and Sikkim, as well as interior Karnataka.
The IMD, in a statement released on Wednesday, highlighted the areas most at risk, stating that heatwave conditions would affect isolated pockets of Bihar, Jharkhand, Coastal Andhra Pradesh, Telangana, Rayalaseema, and coastal Karnataka during this period. The heatwave will impact other regions intermittently, with the forecast showing specific periods for different states.
The IMD has issued a red alert for Gangetic West Bengal, indicating a high likelihood of heat-related illnesses, including heat stroke, across all age groups. This calls for extreme caution, especially for vulnerable individuals, such as infants and the elderly. The IMD advised people in these areas to take appropriate preventive measures, including staying hydrated, avoiding outdoor activities during peak sun exposure, and using protective clothing.
Additionally, orange alerts have been issued for Odisha, Bihar, Coastal Andhra Pradesh & Yanam, Interior Karnataka, and Rayalaseema, indicating an elevated risk of heat illness symptoms among those exposed to prolonged sun exposure or engaging in strenuous activities. These alerts underscore the importance of heightened precautionary measures, particularly for susceptible groups.
Relief may be on the horizon for some regions as a fresh spell of rainfall accompanied by thunderstorms and lightning is forecasted over Northwest India from April 26 to April 28. Northeast India may experience heavy rainfall with thunderstorms, lightning, and gusty winds at isolated places on April 24, 28, and 29.
Several weather systems are in play, with a cyclonic circulation over northeast Assam expected to bring widespread light to moderate rainfall accompanied by thunderstorms and gusty winds (30-40 kmph) over Arunachal Pradesh, Assam, Meghalaya, and other northeastern states. Similarly, other weather systems in the north and central regions are expected to bring intermittent rainfall and thunderstorms to various parts of the country.
The IMD’s forecast serves as a crucial guide for those living in heatwave-prone regions and is a reminder to take safety precautions during the coming days of intense heat.
