India is once again under the grip of intense summer heat as the India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued a heatwave alert for large parts of North and Central India. States including Punjab, Haryana, Rajasthan, Uttar Pradesh, Delhi, Madhya Pradesh, Maharashtra and Telangana are expected to experience a sharp rise in temperatures over the coming days.
According to the latest forecast, mercury levels are likely to climb 3°C to 5°C above normal in several regions. The situation may become particularly difficult in northwest India, where heatwave conditions are expected to persist through the week. In Uttar Pradesh, some areas may even witness severe heatwave conditions, adding to the concern for residents.
Delhi continues to remain one of the worst-hit regions. The capital is already experiencing scorching afternoons with temperatures hovering around 43°C and expected to touch 45°C in the coming days. The nights are also getting warmer, offering little relief. Meteorologists say clear skies and dry winds are contributing to the continuous rise in temperature.
IMD has issued a yellow alert and advised people to take precautions seriously. Citizens have been urged to avoid stepping out during peak afternoon hours between 12 PM and 4 PM, stay hydrated, and prefer light cotton clothing. Vulnerable groups such as children, elderly people and outdoor workers have been advised to take extra care as the risk of heat exhaustion and heatstroke increases in such conditions.
Several other states including Rajasthan, Punjab, Haryana, Madhya Pradesh and parts of Maharashtra are also under heatwave watch. Some regions may even experience warm night conditions, which can make recovery from daytime heat even more difficult.
Despite the extreme heat, the IMD has also indicated a positive development regarding the monsoon. The Southwest Monsoon is likely to reach Kerala around May 26 this year, marking its early progress into the Indian mainland. Weather conditions are becoming favorable for further advancement into parts of the Arabian Sea and Bay of Bengal over the next few days.
— RWFC New Delhi (@RWFC_ND) May 17, 2026
Rainfall activity is also expected in parts of Northeast India, Andaman and Nicobar Islands, Kerala, Tamil Nadu, Karnataka and other southern regions. This may bring gradual relief to some areas, but North India will continue to face intense heat for now.
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For now, the weather department has clearly warned that the coming days will remain challenging, with rising temperatures and heatwave conditions likely to dominate much of North and Central India. People are advised to remain cautious and follow all safety measures issued by IMD.