Severe heatwave to continue across North India; Relief likely after May 29: IMD
Babushahi Bureau
New Delhi, May 25, 2026: The India Meteorological Department has issued a fresh nationwide weather warning, forecasting severe heatwave conditions across several parts of North, Central and Eastern India over the next four to five days, while also predicting heavy to extremely heavy rainfall in parts of Northeast and South India.
According to the latest bulletin issued by the weather department, Punjab, Haryana, Chandigarh, Delhi, Uttar Pradesh, Rajasthan and Madhya Pradesh are likely to witness heatwave to severe heatwave conditions till May 28. Punjab and Haryana are expected to remain among the worst-affected regions, with severe heatwave conditions predicted on May 26 and 27.
The IMD stated that maximum temperatures across Northwest India are expected to remain extremely high until May 28, after which temperatures may gradually fall by 6 to 8 degrees Celsius between May 29 and 31, bringing partial relief from the intense heat in many areas except parts of Rajasthan.
The weather department has also warned of warm night conditions in Uttar Pradesh, Madhya Pradesh, Telangana, Vidarbha and Odisha, increasing health risks, especially for children, senior citizens and outdoor workers.
Meanwhile, thunderstorms, lightning and gusty winds are likely in several states towards the end of the week. Punjab, Haryana, Chandigarh and Delhi may experience thunderstorms with wind speeds of 50 to 70 kmph on May 28 and 29.
Hailstorm activity has also been forecast at isolated places in Punjab, Haryana and nearby northern states.
In Northeast India, Assam and Meghalaya are likely to receive extremely heavy rainfall on May 25, while Arunachal Pradesh, Nagaland, Manipur, Mizoram and Tripura are also expected to witness heavy rain over the coming week. The IMD warned that localized flooding, waterlogging and disruption of transport services may occur in vulnerable areas.
Southern states including Kerala, Tamil Nadu, Karnataka and Andhra Pradesh are likely to receive widespread rainfall accompanied by thunderstorms and gusty winds till May 29.
Heavy rainfall warnings have also been issued for Kerala, Tamil Nadu and Lakshadweep.
The IMD has advised people in heatwave-affected regions to avoid prolonged exposure to the sun, stay hydrated and limit outdoor activities during afternoon hours. Residents in heavy rainfall and thunderstorm-prone areas have also been urged to remain alert and follow official advisories issued by local administrations.