India is currently witnessing extreme and contrasting weather conditions, as the India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued a massive alert covering more than 19 states and Union Territories. While parts of North India are reeling under intense heatwaves, several other regions are bracing for heavy rainfall, thunderstorms, tornado-like conditions, and hailstorms.
This sudden shift in weather patterns has raised concerns across the country, with authorities urging citizens to stay alert and take precautions.
Why Is the Weather So Extreme?
According to the India Meteorological Department, the current situation is being driven by:
- A fresh Western Disturbance originating from West Asia
- Multiple cyclonic circulation systems active over different regions
- A trough line stretching from Maharashtra to southern India
These combined factors are causing unstable weather, leading to strong winds, lightning, and heavy rainfall in many areas.
States on High Alert for Rain, Storms & Tornadoes
The IMD has issued warnings for 21 states and UTs. Here’s a breakdown of the most affected regions:
Northern & Himalayan Region
- Jammu & Kashmir, Ladakh: Rain and thunderstorms (April 24–25)
- Himachal Pradesh: Heavy rainfall till April 28
- Uttarakhand: Storm alert (April 25–26)
Plains of North India
- Punjab, Haryana, Delhi: Light rain and strong winds (April 26–28)
Northeast India
- Arunachal Pradesh: Extremely heavy rainfall (April 25–28)
- Assam & Meghalaya: Winds up to 70 km/h with thundersqualls
- Nagaland, Manipur, Mizoram, Tripura: Heavy rainfall alerts
Eastern India
- Bihar: Severe storm and possible tornado alert (April 24–26)
- Jharkhand & West Bengal: Storms and squally winds
- Odisha: Scattered rainfall and lightning
Southern & Western India
- Telangana, Karnataka, Kerala, Tamil Nadu: Thunderstorms and lightning
- Andhra Pradesh: Rain and gusty winds
- Maharashtra & Goa: Hailstorm warnings
- Madhya Pradesh & Chhattisgarh: Rain and storm alerts
Strong Winds and Hailstorm Warning
The IMD has issued a serious alert for:
- Wind speeds reaching 50–70 km/h in Assam, Meghalaya, Bihar, and West Bengal
- Hailstorms likely in Maharashtra, Marathwada, and North Karnataka
- Risk of damage to crops, trees, and weak structures
Residents are advised to remain indoors during severe weather conditions.
Heatwave Continues to Grip North India
Even as storms hit several states, North India is facing extreme heat:
- Delhi-NCR: Temperatures may soar up to 43°C from April 24
- Uttar Pradesh: Severe heatwave in western and eastern regions
- Rajasthan, Punjab, Haryana: Temperature rise of 3–5°C expected
This dual weather pattern highlights the unusual climatic conditions affecting the country.
Warm Nights & High Humidity Add to Discomfort
The India Meteorological Department has also issued a “Warm Night” alert in:
- Delhi
- Haryana
- Odisha
- Konkan & Goa
Meanwhile, coastal states like Tamil Nadu, Kerala, Andhra Pradesh, and Odisha are experiencing high humidity, making conditions uncomfortable despite rainfall.
What Should You Do?
- Avoid traveling during storms or heavy rainfall
- Stay indoors during lightning and high winds
- Secure loose objects and avoid open areas
- Stay hydrated and avoid heat exposure in affected regions