As the weather continues to fluctuate across India, the Indian Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued several alerts regarding varying conditions expected over the next few days. While some regions brace for severe heat, others are preparing for unseasonal rain and thunderstorms.
In Delhi, the heat wave's impact is lessening, yet temperatures are still expected to hover around 40 degrees Celsius, reaching a peak of 41 degrees on April 18, 2025. The IMD forecasts that from April 17 to April 20, residents will experience discomfort due to the high temperatures, although no heat wave conditions are anticipated. Meanwhile, the weather in the hilly areas of Uttarakhand is shifting, with a yellow alert issued for thunderstorms and lightning in districts including Uttarkashi, Chamoli, and Dehradun, as rain is expected to provide some relief from the heat.
Heavy rain and thunderstorms are also predicted for the districts of Chambal, Kangra, Kullu, Mandi, Shimla, and Lahaul-Spiti, as a fresh Western Disturbance approaches the region. This disturbance is expected to bring light to moderate rain on April 20 and 21, 2025, with the most intense effects felt on April 18 and 19.
In Chandigarh, heavy rainfall was recorded on April 17, 2025, with 8.3 mm of rain reported. Other regions in Punjab experienced similar weather, with Amritsar receiving 4.5 mm and Gurdaspur seeing 18.8 mm of rain. The weather in Chandigarh cleared by morning, allowing sunshine to break through.
As temperatures soar in Rajasthan, Jaisalmer has been particularly hard hit, recording a staggering 46 degrees Celsius on April 16, 2025. The IMD warns that the heat wave is likely to persist, although a slight decrease in temperatures is anticipated over the next few days. In western Rajasthan, particularly in Jodhpur and the Bikaner divisions, strong winds and dust storms are expected, with speeds reaching 30-40 km/h.
In Uttar Pradesh, the IMD has issued alerts for heavy rain and storms in districts such as Mau, Ballia, Deoria, and Gorakhpur, effective for the next three days. Similar alerts extend to Sonbhadra, Chandauli, Varanasi, and Ghazipur, where thunderstorms and rain are also anticipated. The department notes that these weather changes may bring some respite from the prevailing heat.
As for air quality, Delhi's air quality index (AQI) was recorded at 204, placing it in the 'poor' category. The Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) categorizes AQI readings between 201 and 300 as poor, advising residents to limit outdoor activities.
Looking ahead, the IMD has made significant predictions regarding the South-West Monsoon of 2025, suggesting normal to above-normal rainfall in states such as Delhi, Uttar Pradesh, Punjab, Rajasthan, and Maharashtra. Despite these optimistic forecasts, some regions, including Kerala and Tamil Nadu, may experience below-normal rainfall.
Experts attribute the anticipated good monsoon season to several factors, including a weakening of the El Niño phenomenon, which typically induces drought conditions. Additionally, a balanced Indian Ocean Dipole (IOD) and reduced snowfall in Eurasia earlier this year are believed to contribute positively to monsoon strength.
According to IMD forecasts, June is expected to bring approximately 165.3 mm of rain, with July seeing even higher totals of 280.5 mm. However, the monsoon may arrive late in North India, with rainfall predictions varying across different states.
As pre-monsoon activity begins, Bangalore is expected to see daily showers starting April 20, 2025. The IMD has indicated that this could lead to a drop in temperatures and provide much-needed relief from the heat.
In summary, the coming days will bring a mix of weather conditions across India, with heatwaves in some regions and thunderstorms in others. The IMD continues to monitor these developments closely, providing alerts and forecasts to keep the public informed.
