IMD Weather Alert: Heatwave Grips Northwest India While Snow Returns To The Hills

The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued a dual-threat weather bulletin for the week of March 9, 2026, warning of an early-season heatwave across several states while predicting a fresh spell of snow and rain for the Himalayan region.

As of Monday morning, a “heatwave to severe heatwave” alert remains in place for parts of Rajasthan and Gujarat, even as a Western Disturbance begins to approach the northern borders.

1. The Heatwave Watch: Northwest and Central India

Temperatures are expected to climb significantly above normal for this time of year, particularly in the plains.

• Delhi-NCR: Expect a scorching week with temperatures sitting 5°C to 8°C above average. Daytime highs will hover between 36°C and 39°C until March 11.
• Rajasthan & Gujarat: West Rajasthan, North Gujarat, Saurashtra, and Kutch are under a heatwave alert through March 10. Coastal Gujarat will experience intense “hot and humid” conditions.
• Maharashtra: The Marathwada region is expected to join the heatwave list starting tomorrow, March 10.

2. Thunderstorms and Rain: East & Northeast India

The Gangetic plains are set for a volatile start to the week as moisture-laden winds trigger atmospheric instability.

• Monday, March 9: High-intensity thunderstorms, lightning, and gusty winds (30–50 kmph) are forecast for the Gangetic West Bengal, Bihar, Jharkhand, and Odisha.
• The Northeast: Rainfall is expected to pick up across Northeast India from March 10 through March 14.

3. The “Western Disturbance”: Snow for the Hills

Relief from the heat is on the horizon for the northern mountains, which may eventually lead to a slight dip in plains temperatures by the weekend.

• J&K and Ladakh: Widespread light to moderate rainfall and snowfall are predicted between March 10 and 12.
• Himachal & Uttarakhand: Scattered light snow/rain is expected from March 10–14, with thunderstorms likely to hit Himachal on March 11–12.

Region	Max Temp Trend	Key Weather Events
Delhi/NCR	36°C – 39°C	8°C above normal; slight dip after March 12.
Rajasthan	Rising	Heatwave alert for Western Rajasthan.
Kashmir/HP	Falling	Snow and rain starting Tuesday evening.
West Bengal	Normal	Severe thunderstorms and gusty winds today.
Central India	Stable	No major change for 3 days, followed by a 2°C rise.