NEW DELHI, April 16— Weather patterns across India are shifting toward extreme heat, with the India Meteorological Department declaring that several regions should prepare for temperatures exceeding 40°C. According to the latest bulletins, a lack of atmospheric disturbances is allowing a gradual heat buildup that is expected to peak over the next few days, particularly in the northwest and central plains.
The department noted that while Akola and Kalaburagi recorded the country’s peak at 44°C this Wednesday, the lowest minimum temperature was reported in Gurdaspur, Punjab, at 14.5°C. Residents in coastal areas of Maharashtra, Gujarat, and Tamil Nadu have been warned to expect high humidity alongside the heat, which may increase the heat index and overall discomfort.
In its regional outlook, the IMD asserted that maximum temperatures in northwest India will likely jump by 3°C to 4°C by April 18. Similarly, central India is expected to see a rise of up to 3°C by April 20. A spokesperson for the department declared that heatwave criteria are expected to be met in parts of Vidarbha, Telangana, and north interior Karnataka as the week progresses.
In contrast to the rising heat in the plains, the western Himalayan region is preparing for a shift in weather late Thursday. Officials stated that a fresh, weak western disturbance is set to influence Jammu and Kashmir and Ladakh, potentially offering some relief through moderate precipitation. However, the IMD affirmed that this system is unlikely to significantly curb the warming trend currently affecting the rest of the country.
