Temperatures cross 44°C in Madhya Pradesh's Rewa district, with no immediate relief in sight for at least three more days

The second day of Nautapa turned out to be a trial by fire for Rewa residents on Tuesday, as the mercury touched 44 degrees Celsius by early afternoon. Streets that are usually bustling with activity wore a deserted look, with only the occasional auto-rickshaw braving the heat.

What has officials particularly worried is the overnight temperature. The minimum settled around 28 to 29 degrees, offering little window for the human body to recover from daytime exposure.

Heat Already Building Before Nautapa

Weather data from the India Meteorological Department (IMD) shows the current spell didn't arrive suddenly. Even before the nine-day Nautapa period formally began, Rewa was already simmering. On May 23, maximum temperature touched nearly 45 degrees. The following two days recorded readings between 43 and 44 degrees.

Local authorities confirmed that the district hasn't seen nighttime temperatures drop significantly for nearly a week now, a pattern that typically precedes more severe heatwave conditions.

Three More Days of Discomfort

If IMD's city forecast holds, residents shouldn't expect any major relief soon. For May 26, the maximum is expected to hover between 43 and 44 degrees. May 27 could touch 44 degrees again, while May 28 will likely see similar readings.

Night temperatures are projected to stay within 28 to 29 degrees. This means even after sunset, the air retains enough heat to make sleeping difficult without artificial cooling.

'Feels Like Fire Raining'

Ground-level responses paint a grim picture. Rajesh Patel, a resident of Gudh area, told local reporters that stepping out past noon has become nearly impossible. "It feels like fire raining down," he said.

Sunita Mishra, another resident, pointed to the hot winds — locally called 'loo' — that continue well past sunset. "Even at night, there's no peace. These hot winds don't stop," she said.

Initial reports from community health centres in the district have not indicated major heat-related hospitalisations yet, but officials are bracing for a possible rise in cases over the next 48 hours.

Heatwave-Like Conditions Likely to Persist

The IMD has indicated that Rewa may continue to experience heatwave-like conditions for the next few days. A brief advisory issued through district administration channels urged people to avoid direct sunlight during afternoon hours, drink adequate water even if not feeling thirsty, and step out only when absolutely necessary.

Vulnerable groups — the elderly, young children, and those with pre-existing health conditions — have been advised to remain indoors between 11 am and 4 pm.

For now, Rewa waits. And the heat shows no signs of letting up.

Madhya Pradesh is witnessing an intense spell of summer heat, with nearly half of the state coming under the grip of severe heatwave conditions. The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued an orange alert for Indore, Ujjain, Dhar and Ratlam districts for Thursday, warning residents of extremely hot weather and strong hot winds over the next several days.

According to the Meteorological Centre in Bhopal, temperatures are expected to remain significantly above normal across western and central Madhya Pradesh until at least May 17. Officials said the Malwa-Nimar region, including Indore and Ujjain divisions, is likely to experience the harshest impact of the ongoing heatwave.

Khajuraho in Chhatarpur district emerged as the hottest place in the state on Wednesday, recording a maximum temperature of 45.4 degrees Celsius. Ratlam followed closely at 45.2 degrees Celsius, while Dhar recorded 45 degrees Celsius. Several other districts also reported temperatures above the 44-degree mark, indicating widespread heatwave conditions across the state.

The IMD stated that warm night conditions are also expected in parts of Indore, Ujjain and Dhar districts. Warm nights occur when minimum temperatures remain significantly above normal, offering little relief from daytime heat and increasing health risks, especially for children, senior citizens and people with medical conditions.

Districts including Jhabua, Alirajpur, Barwani, Khargone, Khandwa, Burhanpur, Harda, Narmadapuram, Dewas, Sehore, Shajapur, Agar Malwa and Rajgarh are also likely to witness heatwave conditions over the next 24 hours. Meteorologists warned that hot and dry winds may further intensify discomfort during afternoon hours.

The impact of rising temperatures is now extending towards Bhopal, Jabalpur and Gwalior divisions as well. Weather officials indicated that districts such as Morena, Bhind, Datia, Sheopur, Tikamgarh, Chhatarpur, Neemuch, Mandsaur and Niwari could record temperatures above 44 degrees Celsius on Thursday.

Among the state’s major cities, Ujjain remained the hottest on Wednesday with a temperature of 44.7 degrees Celsius. Indore recorded 43.6 degrees Celsius, while Bhopal touched 43.2 degrees Celsius. Jabalpur recorded 42.7 degrees Celsius and Gwalior registered 42 degrees Celsius.

Despite the prevailing heat, some districts witnessed sudden weather activity on Wednesday evening. Rainfall was reported in Jabalpur and Seoni, while hailstorm activity occurred in Pandhurna. Several areas also experienced gusty winds and dust storms due to changing atmospheric conditions.

Weather experts said the recent fluctuations in weather patterns were linked to western disturbances, cyclonic circulations and trough activity that affected the state earlier this month. Madhya Pradesh had witnessed continuous spells of rain, thunderstorms and hailstorms for nearly 11 days between May 1 and May 13. However, with the weakening of those systems, dry northwesterly winds have once again intensified heatwave conditions.

The IMD has advised residents to avoid stepping outdoors during peak afternoon hours unless necessary. People have been urged to stay hydrated, wear light cotton clothing and avoid prolonged exposure to direct sunlight. Authorities also advised parents and caregivers to take extra precautions for children and elderly family members.

Public health experts warned that prolonged exposure to extreme temperatures can lead to dehydration, heat exhaustion and heatstroke. Hospitals in several cities have reportedly started witnessing an increase in patients complaining of fatigue, headaches and heat-related illnesses.

Madhya Pradesh has historically experienced extreme summer temperatures during May, particularly in regions such as Gwalior, Khajuraho and Bundelkhand. Weather records show that Gwalior once recorded 48.3 degrees Celsius in May, while Bhopal, Indore and Jabalpur have also crossed the 46-degree mark in previous years.

Even as heatwave conditions continue, weather experts have not ruled out isolated thunderstorms in some eastern districts later this week due to local atmospheric instability. However, no rainfall alert has been issued for Thursday.

-----------

16 Cities Cross 45°C

At least 16 weather stations across India recorded maximum temperatures of 45 degrees Celsius or more on Sunday, as a harsh heatwave tightened its grip over large swathes of the country.

The highest was logged at Banda in Uttar Pradesh, where the mercury touched 47.6 degrees. That is 5.4 degrees above the long-term normal for this time of year, according to data released by the India Meteorological Department (IMD).

The readings are based on observations made on April 27, 2025.

Rajasthan Among Worst-Hit

Rajasthan continued to bear the brunt of the extreme heat. Jaisalmer reported 46.4 degrees – a departure of nearly five degrees from the 1991-2020 baseline. Kota recorded 45.7 degrees, while Churu and Phalodi were not far behind at 45.3 and 45.4 respectively.

Officials said the absence of any significant western disturbance over northwest India has allowed dry, hot air to prevail across the region. There is also little cloud cover, which has caused daytime temperatures to spike sharply.

Central India Feels the Burn

The heat is not limited to the northern plains. Several stations in Maharashtra and Madhya Pradesh also breached the 45-degree mark.

Amravati in eastern Maharashtra recorded 46.6 degrees, while Wardha and Akola reported 46.5 and 46.3 respectively. Adilabad in Telangana touched 45.3. In Madhya Pradesh, Khajuraho – famous for its temple complex – recorded exactly 46 degrees.

Locals and tourists in these areas have been struggling with the daytime conditions. According to people familiar with the situation, outdoor activity has visibly thinned after 11 am in most towns.

IMD’s Baseline and What Is ‘Normal’

The IMD defines “normal” based on a 30-year average from 1991 to 2020. Any reading that exceeds this by 4.5 degrees or more falls under the severe heatwave category in the plains.

In most of the 16 stations listed, the departure from normal ranged between 2.2 and 5.4 degrees. At Jaisalmer, the 4.9-degree departure is notably high even by April standards, which are typically the hottest pre-monsoon months.

Health and Power Concerns

Officials have not yet released any heat-related casualty figures, but local authorities in affected districts have begun issuing advisories. Residents are being asked to avoid stepping out between noon and 3 pm, and to stay hydrated.

Power grids in parts of Rajasthan and Uttar Pradesh are under strain due to the increased load from cooling appliances. Sources familiar with ground-level conditions said some rural areas experienced brief outages during peak afternoon hours, though restoration has been prompt so far.

Schools in a handful of districts have adjusted their timings, starting early and closing by lunch.

No Immediate Relief in Sight

The IMD has indicated that similar conditions are likely to persist over the next 48 to 72 hours. There is no forecast of any large-scale thunderstorm activity that could bring down the mercury.

Weather analysts tracking the situation said the intensity may ease slightly towards the end of the week, but only marginally. Until then, residents across north, northwest, and parts of central India will have to brace for more days of severe heat.

The data, which was compiled by IMD and shared late Sunday evening, serves as a stark reminder that April 2025 is on track to be among the hotter months in recent years.

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.

MP Weather Update: Rain and Hail Alert Issued for 45 Districts; Jabalpur, Katni at Risk

A potent combination of cyclonic circulations and trough lines has triggered a massive weather shift across Madhya Pradesh, with the IMD predicting thunderstorms and hail for the next 24 hours.

A relentless spell of turbulent weather continues to grip Madhya Pradesh as the India Meteorological Department (IMD) on Saturday issued a comprehensive rain and thunderstorm alert for 45 districts. The state, which has been reeling under erratic climatic shifts for the past four days, is expected to witness isolated hailstorms in the Mahakaushal and Bundelkhand regions, specifically targeting Jabalpur, Katni, and Chhatarpur.

According to senior meteorologists at the Bhopal Forecast Centre, the current instability is driven by two active trough lines and two cyclonic circulations hovering over the western and northern parts of the state. This system has already brought significant pre-monsoon showers to Satna and Chhatarpur on Friday, providing a temporary reprieve from the rising mercury but raising concerns for standing crops.

Severe Hailstorm Warnings Issued

The Meteorological Department has placed Jabalpur, Panna, Damoh, and Katni under an 'Orange Alert' for Saturday. These areas are likely to experience hailstorms accompanied by gusty winds.

Residents in these districts have been advised to stay indoors as the intensity of the storm could lead to localized damage to temporary structures and orchards.

Widespread Rain Across State

Thunderstorms and lightning are anticipated in major urban centers, including Bhopal, Gwalior, and Indore. The alert extends across a vast geographical belt covering Rewa, Sagar, and Ujjain divisions.

Districts such as Raisen, Vidisha, Sehore, and Narmadapuram are also on high alert. Light to moderate rainfall is expected to persist through the weekend, keeping the maximum temperature below the 40°C mark for now.

High-Speed Winds Expected

The IMD has warned of "squally winds" reaching speeds of 50–60 km/h in several districts until April 7. In other parts of the state, wind speeds are expected to hover between 30–40 km/h.

Officials indicated that these strong winds are a result of the moisture-laden Western Disturbance currently interacting with local heat pockets, creating high-convection zones across the central plains.

Fresh System from April 7

While the current spell may show signs of weakening by Monday, another Western Disturbance is slated to become active from April 7. This secondary system will likely extend the period of unseasonal rain until April 10.

"The frequency of these systems is unusual for early April," a weather official noted. "This sequence of disturbances is delaying the onset of the typical summer heatwave usually seen this time of the year."

Anticipated Heatwave in Late April

Despite the current cooling trend, experts warn of a sharp U-turn in temperatures during the second half of the month. Once the rain systems exit, the mercury is expected to soar rapidly.

Forecasts suggest that by the last week of April, districts like Gwalior, Khargone, and Barwani could see temperatures touching 44–45°C. The southern and western parts of the state remain particularly vulnerable to hot "Loo" winds.

Impact on Agriculture Sector

The recurring spells of hail and rain in February and March have already caused extensive damage to wheat, papaya, and banana plantations in 17 districts.

State authorities are currently assessing the latest impact on the Rabi harvest. Farmers have been urged to move harvested produce to safer locations as the rain and storm alert remains active for the next 72 hours.

Safety Guidelines for Citizens

The administration has issued a Public Interest Story advisory, urging citizens to avoid taking shelter under trees or near electric poles during lightning.

As per reports from the state disaster management team, people should unplug electronic appliances and secure loose outdoor items to prevent accidents during high-velocity wind spells. This Latest News Today serves as a critical reminder of the volatile atmospheric conditions currently prevailing over Central India.