New Delhi | April 25, 2026 — The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued high-intensity heatwave alerts for 12 states as a brutal summer surge grips the nation. Forecasters warn that temperatures are expected to breach the 45°C mark in several regions this weekend, marking one of the earliest and most severe heat spells of the decade.
States on High Alert
The “Yellow” and “Orange” alerts cover a vast swathe of the country, primarily affecting Northern, Central, and Eastern India. The states under direct threat include:
North: Rajasthan, Punjab, Haryana, and Uttar Pradesh.
Central: Madhya Pradesh, Chhattisgarh, and Vidarbha (Maharashtra).
East: Odisha, Bihar, Jharkhand, and Gangetic West Bengal.
National Capital Territory: Delhi.
In Prayagraj, Uttar Pradesh, the mercury has already touched 45.2°C, signaling a dangerous trend for the rest of the weekend. Rajasthan’s northwestern districts are also bracing for peak temperatures between 44°C and 45°C.
The “Warm Night” Phenomenon
Meteorologists are particularly concerned about “warm night” conditions. In states like Delhi, Haryana, and Odisha, nighttime temperatures are staying significantly above normal. This prevents the environment—and the human body—from cooling down, increasing the risk of heat-related illnesses such as heatstroke and severe dehydration.
IMD Guidelines and Mitigation
The IMD has urged citizens to avoid outdoor activities between 11:00 AM and 4:00 PM. Authorities in cities like Alwar have already begun sprinkling water on major roads to lower surface temperatures.
“This heatwave is intensified by a lack of western disturbances and dry hot winds blowing from the northwest,” an IMD official stated. “While some isolated rainfall is expected in the Himalayan region, the plains will remain a furnace for the next 48 to 72 hours.”
Health departments have advised vulnerable populations—including the elderly, children, and outdoor laborers—to stay hydrated and use umbrellas or hats. With the power demand surging due to cooling needs, several state grids are also on standby to prevent outages during this critical weekend.