New Delhi: The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued a strong warning of intense heatwave conditions across several parts of the country this summer. According to a senior IMD official, northern parts of the Indo-Gangetic plains, eastern coastal states, and western regions including Gujarat and Maharashtra are likely to experience more heatwave days than usual.
IMD Director General Mrutyunjay Mohapatra stated that certain regions are naturally more vulnerable to extreme heat every year. Temperatures in many areas are expected to cross 40°C, even in places that typically do not experience heatwave conditions.
He explained that regions like Vidarbha in Maharashtra usually record temperatures around 41–42°C during this time of the year, while states such as Uttar Pradesh and Haryana can see temperatures rising between 40–44°C by May. “We must be prepared for more such high-temperature days,” he emphasized.
📍 Focus on Vulnerable Communities
The IMD is taking special measures to reach people who are most exposed to extreme heat, such as street vendors and agricultural workers. To ensure timely communication, the department has created WhatsApp groups and installed public information boards displaying heat alerts and safety measures.
Additionally, warnings are being disseminated through government platforms, including the National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA) via the Common Alert Protocol, enabling mobile users to receive updates directly.
However, Mohapatra noted that some vulnerable populations still lack access to mobile communication. Efforts are being made to reach them through both modern and traditional methods.
📊 Improved Forecasting and Alerts
The IMD releases seasonal heatwave forecasts in advance and updates them regularly. Weekly extended forecasts for the next four weeks are issued every Thursday, along with district-level seven-day warnings during peak summer months.
The latest forecast suggests that between April and June, several regions may face heatwave conditions. The most affected areas are likely to include:
- Southern parts of West Bengal
- Odisha
- Andhra Pradesh
- Parts of Chhattisgarh and Telangana
Heatwave conditions may also develop across:
- Northern Indo-Gangetic plains including Haryana, Uttar Pradesh, Bihar, and Jharkhand
- Southern parts of Rajasthan and Madhya Pradesh
- Parts of Gujarat and northern Maharashtra
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