Mercury On A Mission: IMD Flags Scorching Heatwave Stretch Across North India

Jyoti Rathi May 24, 2026 1,500 Views

The India Meteorological Department has issued a severe heatwave warning for large parts of North India, with temperatures expected to climb significantly above seasonal norms over the coming days. Residents, commuters and outdoor workers face heightened health risks as dry, hot conditions tighten their grip across the region from late May into early June.

The Heat Is On

The IMD's latest advisory puts several states including Delhi, Rajasthan, Uttar Pradesh, Haryana, Punjab and Madhya Pradesh on high alert, with maximum temperatures forecast to breach 45 to 47 degrees Celsius in some pockets. The department has flagged that a combination of weak western disturbances, low moisture content in the atmosphere and strong dry northwesterly winds is amplifying heat stress across the Indo-Gangetic plain. For densely populated urban centres like Delhi, the urban heat island effect is likely to push the "feels like" index even higher than recorded mercury levels.

Why This Heatwave Feels Different

Meteorologists note that this season's heat pattern has been more persistent than typical pre-monsoon spells, with consecutive days of above-normal temperatures offering little overnight relief. The absence of significant rainfall or cloud cover over North India through May has left the soil parched and heat absorption at its peak. IMD's colour coded warning system currently places multiple districts under red and orange alerts, urging state administrations to activate heat action plans and keep public health infrastructure on standby.

What Needs To Happen On The Ground

State governments have been advised to restrict outdoor activity between 11 AM and 4 PM, ramp up distribution of oral rehydration salts and ensure shelters and cool zones are accessible to daily wage workers and the homeless. Schools in affected districts are being urged to either shift timings or suspend physical activity during peak heat hours.

Heatwave Watch Highlights

IMD issues severe heatwave warning for Delhi, Rajasthan, UP, Haryana, Punjab and MP
Temperatures forecast to touch 45 to 47 degrees Celsius in parts of the region
Dry northwesterly winds and weak western disturbances identified as key drivers
Red and orange alerts activated across multiple districts under IMD's warning system
Urban heat island effect set to amplify discomfort in densely populated metro areas
Heat action plans, cool shelters and ORS distribution advised by health authorities
No significant rainfall relief expected across North India for the near term