The India Meteorological Department issued heatwave alerts for Delhi, Punjab, Maharashtra, and Uttar Pradesh as temperatures rose across the country [1, 2, 3].
These extreme weather conditions threaten public health, agricultural productivity, and the stability of the national electricity grid during a period of peak demand.
Weather officials said temperatures across most of India hovered between 40 C and 46 C on April 26 [4]. In Akola, Maharashtra, the maximum temperature reached 46.9 C [4]. The IMD generally issues heatwave alerts when temperatures exceed 40 C [3].
In Delhi, the forecast included strong winds reaching up to 50 kph [1]. While the region remains under alert, the IMD also predicted thunderstorms and rain for several areas starting April 26 [1, 3].
Forecasts for the end of the month suggest varying levels of relief. Maximum temperatures in Central India are likely to fall by 2 to 3 C between April 28 and April 30 [5]. In Northwest India, a more significant drop of 3 to 5 C is projected for April 29 and April 30 [6].
However, some data indicates that temperatures in Northwest India may not see a significant change until April 28 [6]. Other reports note that several cities continue to experience extreme temperatures above 45 C [1].
Experts said the harsh summer may be intensified by an El Nino event [7]. This climate pattern can strengthen heatwaves and weaken the monsoon, increasing pressure on water supplies and farming operations [7].
“Temperatures across most of India hovered between 40 C and 46 C on April 26.”
The intersection of an El Nino event and extreme April heat creates a compounding crisis for India's agrarian economy. By weakening the monsoon and driving temperatures above 40 C early in the season, the weather pattern threatens crop yields and increases the risk of water scarcity before the primary rainy season begins.
