India is currently experiencing an intense spell of extreme heat, with temperatures soaring across most regions and significantly impacting daily life. The situation has become particularly alarming in the northern plains, where Uttar Pradesh’s Banda recorded a scorching 45.4°C, the highest temperature in Asia so far this season. This sharp spike highlights the severity of the ongoing heatwave gripping the country.

Extreme temperature swings in Banda

Interestingly, Banda has witnessed dramatic weather fluctuations within a short span. Just a week earlier, around April 9–10, the same region recorded one of the lowest temperatures in the plains at approximately 12°C. This unusual variation underscores the unstable weather patterns affecting large parts of India.

Heatwave spreads across multiple states

The heatwave is not limited to Uttar Pradesh. Over the next four days, several states including Madhya Pradesh, Maharashtra, Chhattisgarh, Odisha, Jharkhand, Andhra Pradesh, Telangana, West Bengal, Tamil Nadu, and Kerala are expected to experience severe heatwave conditions. Many cities are already reporting temperatures above 40°C, intensifying concerns over public health and safety.

Impact on cities and daily life

In Uttar Pradesh alone, at least 16 districts have recorded temperatures exceeding 40°C, triggering heatwave conditions. Major cities like Prayagraj and Varanasi are facing intense heat, affecting routine activities and increasing the risk of heat-related illnesses.

Meanwhile, regions in Madhya Pradesh, Chhattisgarh, and Odisha have seen temperatures cross 43°C. In response, authorities in Madhya Pradesh have revised school timings in 13 districts to protect children from extreme heat exposure.

School closures in Odisha and Chhattisgarh

The rising temperatures have forced administrative action in several regions. In Odisha, districts such as Bolangir, Subarnapur, and Kalahandi have announced the closure of schools, colleges, and Anganwadi centres until April 21. Similar precautionary measures have been observed in parts of Chhattisgarh as well.

Mixed weather conditions bring slight relief

Despite the widespread heat, some regions have experienced temporary relief due to rainfall. States like Rajasthan, Uttar Pradesh, Haryana, and Delhi recorded light showers on Friday, slightly easing the heat. However, temperatures in these areas still remained above 40°C, indicating that the respite is short-lived.

Rain and snowfall alerts in other regions

While central and southern India grapple with extreme heat, northeastern and hilly regions are preparing for entirely different weather conditions. Rainfall has been forecast in states including Jammu and Kashmir, Uttarakhand, Himachal Pradesh, Bihar, Sikkim, West Bengal, Assam, Meghalaya, Arunachal Pradesh, Nagaland, Manipur, Mizoram, and Tripura.

Additionally, snowfall alerts have been issued for higher altitude areas in Jammu and Kashmir, Uttarakhand, and Himachal Pradesh. Nathula in Sikkim has already witnessed fresh snowfall between Friday and Saturday.

Changing weather patterns in southern India

Southern states are expected to experience a mix of heat and humidity. Rainfall is likely in parts of coastal Karnataka, Telangana, Andhra Pradesh, and central Maharashtra, which may lead to humid conditions rather than significant cooling. In Tirumala, Andhra Pradesh, weather conditions shifted Suddenly, with early morning fog observed on Saturday.

Short-term weather forecast

On April 19, heatwave conditions are expected to persist in parts of Chhattisgarh, Jharkhand, Madhya Pradesh, Odisha, and Maharashtra. Coastal and southern regions may face hot and humid weather. Heavy rainfall is likely in Arunachal Pradesh, Assam, and Meghalaya, while thunderstorms with lightning are possible in Jammu and Kashmir and Uttarakhand.

On April 20, Jharkhand and Odisha may see intensified heatwave conditions, including warm nights in some areas. Meanwhile, thunderstorms are expected across Karnataka, Maharashtra, Chhattisgarh, West Bengal, Sikkim, and Telangana, along with continued heavy rainfall in northeastern states.