Heatwave conditions are set to persist across large parts of northwest India for the next four to five days, the India Meteorological Department (IMD) warned on 24 May, maintaining a red alert for Uttar Pradesh and Madhya Pradesh and a yellow alert for Delhi, Punjab, Haryana, and Rajasthan. The forecast offers little immediate relief for millions already enduring punishing afternoon temperatures across the region.

Western Disturbance Triggers Hill Alerts

Meteorologist Akhil Srivastava said a western disturbance was currently centred over Jammu & Kashmir, making thunderstorm activity likely across the hilly states. 'Today, a western disturbance was centred over Jammu & Kashmir. In view of this, thunderstorm activity is likely in the hilly regions, mainly across Jammu & Kashmir, Himachal Pradesh and Uttarakhand,' he said.

Srivastava also flagged the possibility of hailstorms at isolated locations in Jammu, prompting the IMD to issue an orange alert for Jammu & Kashmir. 'There is also a possibility of a hailstorm at a few isolated places in Jammu. Keeping this in mind, an orange alert has been issued for Jammu & Kashmir,' he added.

Plains Unlikely to See Major Relief

While isolated thunderstorm activity may occur in the plains as well, Srivastava cautioned that it is unlikely to bring any significant respite from the heat. 'The heatwave conditions currently prevailing over northwest India are expected to continue for the next four to five days, as there is little likelihood of any significant change in maximum temperatures,' he said.

This comes amid a prolonged high-temperature spell that has gripped north and central India, raising concerns over public health vulnerabilities and agricultural stress. Authorities are closely monitoring developments as the season enters its most intense phase.

Ground Reality in Chandigarh and Punjab

Heatwave conditions continued unabated across Chandigarh, Punjab, and parts of Himachal Pradesh on Sunday, with residents describing difficult daytime conditions. A Chandigarh resident noted that the heat was becoming a concern beyond just human discomfort. 'The heat is increasing a lot, and the temperature is rising significantly. We all should take care of ourselves as well as birds, animals, and trees,' the resident said.

IMD Advisory and Public Health Concerns

The IMD has advised residents in affected areas to avoid prolonged exposure to direct sunlight during peak afternoon hours, remain well-hydrated, and take precautions against heat-related illnesses such as heat stroke and exhaustion. Authorities across states are on alert, with health departments in Uttar Pradesh and Rajasthan reportedly activating heatwave response protocols. The coming days will be critical, with any shift in wind patterns or a strengthening of the western disturbance being the primary factors that could alter the forecast.