MP Weather conditions remained harsh across Madhya Pradesh on Monday as the India Meteorological Department (IMD) issued a heatwave alert for 25 districts, warning of intense daytime temperatures and continued discomfort through the week. Several districts have already recorded temperatures above 45 degrees Celsius, marking one of the harshest summer phases of the season.

According to officials, the heatwave has affected both daytime and night-time conditions, with residents facing prolonged exposure to high temperatures and little relief after sunset.

temperature crosses 45°C

Khajuraho recorded a maximum temperature of 45 degrees Celsius, while Narmadapuram, Nowgong and Sagar reported temperatures above 44 degrees Celsius. Bhopal touched 43 degrees Celsius, adding to concerns over sustained heat exposure in urban centres.

The rising temperature has pushed several parts of the state into severe heatwave conditions for the first time this season. In Indore, Ujjain and Bhopal, night temperatures remained close to 28 degrees Celsius, making conditions difficult even after dark.

Weather officials said the absence of night-time cooling has worsened the impact of the heatwave, especially in densely populated cities.

25 districts on alert

The IMD has warned that heatwave conditions are likely to persist from Monday to Wednesday across nearly half of Madhya Pradesh. Districts including Bhopal, Indore, Ujjain, Dhar, Dewas, Shajapur, Rajgarh, Sehore, Vidisha and Narmadapuram remain under heatwave alert.

Officials have advised people to avoid stepping out during afternoon hours unless necessary. The warning applies to both urban and rural areas where exposure to hot winds may pose health risks, especially for children, senior citizens and outdoor workers.

As per Government Updates issued by weather authorities, residents have been urged to stay hydrated and avoid direct exposure during peak daytime hours.

Rain may raise humidity

The IMD has forecast light rain and thunderstorm activity in parts of the state over the next three to four days. However, meteorologists have said the change is unlikely to bring significant relief.

IMD scientist Uma Shankar Das said temperatures may drop by two to three degrees after the next two days, which could reduce heatwave intensity. However, he noted that the incoming moisture may lead to increased humidity, making conditions more uncomfortable.

According to weather experts, when temperatures rise beyond 43 degrees Celsius, moisture in the atmosphere becomes active and starts aiding cloud formation. This can trigger isolated rainfall and thunder activity, but also raises humidity levels.

Why nights stay warmer

Meteorologists said rising urbanisation has contributed to unusually warm nights across major cities in Madhya Pradesh. Concrete roads, flyovers and buildings absorb heat through the day and release it slowly after sunset, keeping temperatures elevated.

Weather scientist HS Pandey said cloud cover at night further traps heat near the surface, preventing normal cooling. This has led to warmer nights in cities and extended discomfort for residents.

The combination of retained surface heat and limited night-time cooling has made the present weather spell more intense than usual.

Systems driving weather

Meteorologists attributed the changing weather pattern to moisture inflow from the Arabian Sea and a cyclonic circulation over eastern Uttar Pradesh. Another wind circulation has developed over central Madhya Pradesh at an altitude of around 1.5 km.

This system is creating conditions for afternoon cloud formation and isolated thunder activity in parts of the state. However, experts said these developments are more likely to increase humidity than provide sustained cooling.

The evolving pattern has become a Public Interest Story as rising heat and changing weather continue to affect daily life, health and mobility across the state.

Relief still limited

The IMD has indicated that while a marginal drop in temperature is likely later this week, broad relief from severe summer conditions remains unlikely in the immediate term. Weather officials said MP Weather will stay volatile, with heatwave conditions continuing in several districts even as scattered rain activity develops.