As of March 20, 2025, weather experts across India are closely monitoring significant changes in climate conditions that have ushered in an early start to summer heat in many regions, alongside alerts for thunderstorms and rain.
In Jharkhand, residents have experienced contradictory predictions from the Indian Meteorological Department (IMD). While rains were anticipated in the state’s capital, Ranchi, the day yielded only sunshine instead. However, experts warn that an orange alert is in place for several districts, indicating the possibility of thunderstorms, rain, and rapid winds reaching 40 to 50 kilometers per hour. Abhishek Anand, a meteorologist from the Ranchi weather center, noted, "A cyclonic trough is moving through Jharkhand, which may lead to rain and thunderstorms in southern and central districts."
The potential for severe weather peaks in districts such as Khunti, Palamu, Chatra, and Ranchi, where both rain and lightning strikes are forecasted. The maximum temperature in Chaibasa has reached a staggering 38.4 degrees Celsius, marking the hottest point in Jharkhand over the past 24 hours. In contrast, Garhwa recorded cooler temperatures at 14.7 degrees Celsius, providing a stark contrast within the state.
Uttar Pradesh is not proving any less dramatic in its weather patterns. With residents increasingly concerned as early summer-like heat grips the state, weather officials predict a notable shift in conditions over the next 72 hours. An alert for thunderstorms, lightning, and fierce winds has been issued for various districts, including Jaunpur, Varanasi, and Mujjafarnagar, where winds are expected to blow at 30 to 40 kilometers per hour.
Specific advisories from the IMD highlight that the weather in Uttar Pradesh will likely remain stormy until March 22, before stabilizing. Manoj Srivastava, a meteorologist at BHU, pointed to humid easterly winds from the Bay of Bengal as the catalyst for this changing weather: "The shifting patterns due to these winds can precipitate rain and alter temperatures significantly. We expect rainfall on March 21, with further rain alerts for March 22 in eastern regions."
Meanwhile, Delhi prepares for its own transformations in temperature. Although only mild fluctuations are expected in the coming days, weather forecasts indicate that maximum temperatures could soar as high as 34 degrees Celsius. Humidity levels recorded are significant, suggesting that heat may well become stifling as clear skies unfold. On the 21st, temperatures may dip slightly to a maximum of 33 degrees Celsius but rise again, reaching as high as 40 degrees Celsius by the end of the week.
"From March 25 to 27, residents in NCR should prepare for impending heatwaves that will mimic the scorching temperatures typical of April and May," cautioned a weather official. The air quality index in Delhi measured at 169 as of early morning today, placing it in the "moderate" category, although rising temperatures might elevate pollution levels.
Collectively, these evolving weather conditions underscore the unpredictable narrative of Indian weather as climate changes push counter-intuitive weather patterns into public awareness. Residents are advised to be prepared for rapid shifts in the weather, particularly during this pivotal transitional period.
In closing, residents are urged to take precautions amid the forecasted severe weather. The IMD suggests that individuals stay indoors during thunderstorms and restrict outdoor activities during high wind alerts to ensure safety. As weather conditions fluctuate consistently, keeping updated through reliable meteorological advisories is more essential than ever.
