India’s weather map has split into two extremes this week. While North and Central India prepare for a punishing thermal surge, the East and Northeast are bracing for violent downpours and hailstorms. The IMD has officially signaled the start of a grueling week, with Delhi’s mercury expected to jump by 5°C in just 48 hours, pushing the capital back into the furnace.
The North & Central “Oven”
A severe heatwave is tightening its grip on the heart of the country. East Uttar Pradesh is already under alert, with the heat expected to intensify through April 20. The “scorched belt” extends further:
- Rajasthan & Odisha: Bracing for prolonged heatwaves between April 19 and 22.
- The Hottest Spots: Over the weekend, Wardha (Maharashtra) and Rajnandgaon (UP) claimed the title of the country’s hottest cities.
- Stagnant Nights: Residents in Odisha, Chhattisgarh, and Jharkhand won’t find much relief after sunset, as “warm night” conditions are predicted to trap heat well into the early hours.
The Monsoon-Like Shift in the East
In a stark contrast, the atmosphere is turning volatile in the mountains and the East. The IMD has issued “Heavy to Very Heavy” rainfall alerts for Arunachal Pradesh, Assam, and Meghalaya through April 21.
- Bengal & Sikkim: Expect a drenching today and tomorrow, which may offer cooling but brings the risk of localized flooding.
- The Hail Threat: In an unusual twist, hailstorms are predicted for Jammu and Kashmir, while parts of Karnataka and Maharashtra could see ice falling from the sky despite the ambient warmth.
Coastal Humidity and Storm Risks
For those on the southern and eastern coasts, the challenge isn’t just the heat—it’s the “wet bulb” effect. High humidity in Andhra Pradesh, Tamil Nadu, and Kerala will make moderate temperatures feel significantly more oppressive. Meanwhile, a massive swath of the country—stretching from Punjab to Telangana—remains on high alert for lightning strikes and sudden squalls.