Rain and gusty winds predicted in eastern MP while western regions face rising temperatures and heatwave warnings.

The weather pattern in Madhya Pradesh continues to remain fragmented as the state experiences a rare simultaneous occurrence of localized storms and intense summer heat. The India Meteorological Department (IMD) on Monday issued an alert for rain and thunderstorms in eight districts, even as major urban centers like Bhopal and Indore brace for a sharp spike in mercury levels.

According to the latest bulletin from the Bhopal Meteorological Centre, a combination of two trough lines and a cyclonic circulation active over the region is triggering this instability. Districts including Mandla, Seoni, Balaghat, Betul, Chhindwara, Pandhurna, Dindori, and Anuppur are likely to witness gusty winds reaching speeds of 30 to 40 kmph accompanied by light to moderate rainfall.

Regional temperature variations

While the eastern belt deals with sudden clouds, the western and central parts of the state are under a severe heat spell. On Sunday, Ratlam recorded a blistering 45.5 degrees Celsius, the highest in the state this season. Other areas like Shajapur and Dhar also crossed the 42-degree mark, making it a grueling weekend for residents.

Local authorities noted that the scorching heat has forced citizens to stay indoors during peak afternoon hours. "We are seeing a typical May surge now, despite the intermittent rains we had earlier this month," a senior IMD official stated.

Impact of cyclonic systems

The current weather activity is attributed to a cyclonic circulation that has kept the atmosphere volatile. On Sunday, at least 18 districts across Indore, Bhopal, Narmadapuram, and Jabalpur divisions saw a mix of overcast skies and light drizzling. However, this moisture has failed to provide long-term relief from the heat, instead increasing humidity levels in several pockets.

Heatwave alert from Tuesday

The relief offered by the rain is expected to be short-lived for the western districts. The Met department has issued a formal heatwave (loo) alert starting May 12. This will primarily impact the Indore and Ujjain divisions, where dry, hot winds from the northwest are expected to push temperatures further up.

Historically, cities like Gwalior and Khajuraho have seen May temperatures breaching the 47-degree mark, and officials warn that the current trend is heading in a similar direction for the latter half of the month.

Health department advisory

With the heat intensifying, the health department has released a public advisory. Residents are urged to stay hydrated and avoid direct sun exposure between 11:00 AM and 4:00 PM. "People should wear light-colored cotton clothing and ensure they carry water bottles when stepping out. Special care must be taken for the elderly and children," the advisory read.

Unusual May weather trends

This year, Madhya Pradesh saw an unusually long spell of rain during the first ten days of May due to persistent Western Disturbances. This kept the heat in check temporarily. However, with the systems now moving, the traditional 'Naupata' heat is expected to take over.

In major cities like Jabalpur and Ujjain, the trend of 'fire and rain'—where high daytime temperatures are followed by evening thunderstorms—is likely to continue for another 48 hours before the dry heat stabilizes across the state.