Hyderabad is bracing for a significant shift in weather as the India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued a yellow alert for thunderstorms, lightning, and gusty winds across 14 districts in Telangana. This alert, effective from Thursday, May 8, 2025, includes the districts of Jangaon, Nizamabad, Hyderabad, Jagtial, Karimnagar, Peddapalli, Jayashankar Bhupalpally, Siddipet, Yadadri Bhuvanagiri, Rangareddy, Medchal Malkajgiri, Sangareddy, Rajanna Sircilla, and Medak.
Hyderabad is expected to experience rain and thunderstorm activity towards the evening on May 8. The city has been witnessing a welcome respite from the intense summer heat, with temperatures dipping below seasonal averages recently. On May 6, the maximum temperature in Hyderabad was recorded at 37.4 degrees Celsius, which is 2 degrees Celsius lower than the average for this time of year. The minimum temperature stood at 22.5 degrees Celsius, deviating by 3.6 degrees from the normal range.
Additionally, a light rainfall of 2 mm was recorded between 08:30 IST on May 5 and 08:30 IST on May 6. The IMD forecasts that these pleasant conditions are likely to continue, with a partly cloudy sky and a chance of light rain or thundershowers expected on May 7. This pattern is likely to persist into May 8, with temperatures hovering around 36 to 37 degrees Celsius.
The IMD's yellow alert indicates that thunderstorms, accompanied by lightning and gusty winds ranging from 30-40 km/h, are expected to prevail over the next few days. This weather change is attributed to a western disturbance system currently influencing the region, which is known for causing fluctuations in temperature and precipitation patterns.
On May 7, Nalgonda recorded the highest temperature in the state at 40.9 degrees Celsius, followed by Adilabad and Karimnagar at 40.7 degrees Celsius. In Hyderabad, the maximum temperature reached 39.3 degrees Celsius in Patancheru and Serilingampally. For the next 48 hours, Hyderabad will see partly to generally cloudy skies, with light to moderate rain or thundershowers likely towards the evening or night. Maximum and minimum temperatures are expected to be around 37 degrees Celsius and 24 degrees Celsius, respectively.
Looking ahead, the weather forecast for Hyderabad indicates that the city will continue to experience a similar pattern. On May 9, the forecast predicts a partly cloudy sky with one or two spells of rain or thundershowers, with temperatures ranging from 23 degrees Celsius in the morning to a high of 37 degrees Celsius in the afternoon. Similar weather conditions are expected on May 10 and 11, with partly cloudy skies and brief showers in the evening or night.
As the week progresses, the weather is likely to transition to generally cloudy skies starting May 13, with a heightened chance of thunderstorms and rain. The minimum temperature is expected to remain around 23 degrees Celsius, while maximum temperatures are projected to decrease slightly, reaching 36 degrees Celsius on May 13 and 35 degrees Celsius on May 14.
The recent rainfall and drop in temperatures have provided much-needed relief to residents, especially after the above-normal temperatures and heatwave conditions experienced earlier in the season. The IMD had previously forecasted above-normal temperatures for most parts of India in May, but the recent thunderstorms are expected to prevent temperatures from reaching the severe levels observed in previous years.
Residents are advised to stay updated with the latest weather forecasts and take necessary precautions during thunderstorms, such as avoiding open areas and seeking shelter indoors. The IMD continues to monitor the situation and will provide updates as necessary.
This weather change not only highlights the immediate relief from the heat but also underscores the importance of sustainable urban planning and infrastructure that can adapt to such fluctuations. As cities continue to grow and face the challenges of climate change, developing eco-friendly and resilient urban environments becomes increasingly crucial.
In summary, Hyderabad and its surrounding districts are preparing for a forecast of thunderstorms and cooler weather over the coming days, providing a much-needed break from the oppressive heat of the preceding weeks. With the IMD's yellow alert in place, residents are encouraged to remain vigilant and informed as they navigate the changing weather patterns.