MP Weather Update: Madhya Pradesh is witnessing an intense spell of heat as temperatures surge across the state, marking the beginning of a severe summer phase. On Friday, the temperature reached 43.2 degrees Celsius in Khajuraho, the highest recorded this season so far. Several cities reported temperatures above 42 degrees, signaling a sharp rise in heat conditions.

IMD Issues Heatwave Alert in 16 Districts

The India Meteorological Department in Bhopal has issued a heatwave warning for 16 districts, urging residents to take precautions. The districts under alert include Alirajpur, Jhabua, Ratlam, Dhar, Raisen, Narmadapuram, Betul, Chhindwara, Pandhurna, Seoni, Mandla, Balaghat, Niwari, Tikamgarh, Chhatarpur, and Panna. Authorities have advised people to avoid prolonged exposure to the sun, especially during peak afternoon hours.

School Timings Revised Amid Rising Heat

With soaring temperatures affecting daily life, several district administrations have revised school timings to protect students from extreme heat. In Bhopal, schools will now operate from 7:30 am to 12 noon. Similar changes have been implemented in districts such as Narmadapuram, Gwalior, Balaghat, Maihar, Ratlam, Chhindwara, Narsinghpur, Raisen, Dindori, Anuppur, and Umaria.

Temperature Trends Across Major Cities

The heatwave has impacted major cities significantly. Jabalpur recorded the highest temperature among big cities at 42 degrees Celsius, followed by Bhopal and Gwalior at 41.3 degrees. Indore recorded 40.6 degrees, while Ujjain registered 40.5 degrees. Several regions, including Khajuraho, also experienced hot winds, commonly referred to as ‘loo’.

Season’s First Major Temperature Spike

Friday marked the first major temperature spike of the season, with multiple districts crossing the 41-degree mark. Umaria recorded 42.9 degrees, Tikamgarh and Nowgong saw 42.8 degrees, Mandla touched 42.5 degrees, while Damoh, Guna, and Datia recorded 42.2 degrees. Other districts such as Sagar, Satna, Chhindwara, Narmadapuram, Shajapur, Sidhi, Narsinghpur, and Rewa also reported temperatures above 41 degrees.

Health Advisory Issued by Weather Department

As the heat intensifies, authorities have issued advisories to safeguard public health. Residents are encouraged to stay hydrated, wear light-colored cotton clothing, and avoid stepping out during peak heat hours. Special caution has been advised for children and elderly individuals, who are more vulnerable to heat-related illnesses.

Unusual Weather Pattern Earlier This Month

Interestingly, the first half of April witnessed an entirely different weather pattern. Between April 1 and April 9, many parts of the state experienced rainfall, thunderstorms, and even hailstorms. Gwalior recorded the highest rainfall during this period, while more than 45 districts saw precipitation and over 15 districts reported hail.

Why Heat Intensifies in Late April

According to meteorological experts, April and May are traditionally the hottest months in central India. Just as winter peaks in December-January and monsoon in July-August, the second half of April typically marks the onset of intense summer heat. This year appears to be following that pattern after early weather fluctuations.

Frequent Weather Changes in February and March

The state experienced multiple weather shifts earlier in the year. February and March each saw four major weather disturbances, including rain, hail, and strong winds. These events caused significant damage to crops such as wheat, papaya, and banana, prompting government surveys for assessment.

Long-Term Heat Trends in Major Cities

Historical data indicates that cities like Bhopal and Indore have previously recorded temperatures around 43 to 44 degrees Celsius in April, while Jabalpur has touched 45 degrees. Gwalior remains one of the hottest cities, with temperatures exceeding 45 degrees in past years. Experts believe that this year could see similar or even higher temperature levels as summer progresses.