Severe Heatwave Prevails Across India, Delhi Swelters At 44.5 Degrees Celsius

In Rajasthan's Bikaner district, the heat crossed 43°C in April, with heatwave conditions affecting normal life and streets largely deserted as residents stayed indoors to avoid the heat and scorching winds.

In Madhya Pradesh's Bhopal, temperatures surpassed 42°C as hot winds known as loo persisted. Residents increasingly relied on traditional cooling drinks such as lemon water (shikanji), sugarcane juice, and raw mango drinks (aam panna), with street vendors reporting heavy footfall.

Central Karnataka's Chitradurga region reported intense heat, with rising dehydration and fatigue among residents and limited relief from rainfall. Local faculty members said daytime movement was difficult between 10 am and 4 pm due to heat radiating from rocky terrain and increased sun intensity.

In Odisha, Jharsuguda reached 44.8°C and Titlagarh 44°C, with 18 stations reporting temperatures above 40°C. IMD warned of a potential temperature drop after three days, and isolated thunderstorms with gusty winds of 40-50 kmph were likely from day four onwards.

IMD data showed heatwave conditions in Bihar with districts including Kaimur, Rohtas, Aurangabad, Buxar, Bhojpur (Arrah), and Arwal under heatwave conditions. Officials said temperatures remained above normal with relief expected from tomorrow and rainfall possible to accompany easing of heat.

Prayagraj in Uttar Pradesh reported the highest maximum temperature of 45.2°C, contributing to the widespread heatwave conditions seen across the state.

Delhi logged a maximum of 44.5°C as IMD warned that temperatures would remain significantly above normal in the coming days. Predominant surface winds were forecast from the northwest up to 20 kmph in the afternoon, with winds easing to under 15 kmph in the evening and night. Authorities advised residents to exercise caution and take precautions to safeguard against the heat as public movement declined and many stayed indoors during peak sun hours.