India continues to reel under intense summer heat, with the India Meteorological Department (IMD) warning that severe to very severe heatwave conditions are likely to persist across several parts of the country till May 22.

According to the IMD, temperatures are expected to rise further in northern and central India over the next few days, increasing the risk of heat-related illnesses.

Delhi Temperature May Touch 45 Degrees Celsius

The national capital New Delhi is expected to witness a sharp rise in temperature, with mercury likely to increase by 2 to 3 degrees Celsius.

On Sunday, the city is expected to experience partly cloudy skies along with strong winds blowing at speeds of 20–30 kmph and gusts reaching up to 40 kmph. Thunderstorm activity is also likely in some areas.

The maximum temperature in Delhi is expected to remain close to 44°C initially, but clear skies in the following days could push temperatures further up to 45°C. The IMD has also warned that nights will remain unusually warm, adding to public discomfort.

Heatwave Conditions to Persist in Several States

The IMD said heatwave conditions are likely to continue in parts of Rajasthan, Uttar Pradesh, Madhya Pradesh, Punjab, Haryana, Chandigarh, as well as some areas of Konkan and Goa.

Weather officials stated that temperatures in northern and central India are rising rapidly, while western Himalayan regions may witness an increase of 3 to 4 degrees Celsius in the coming days.

Experts warned that prolonged exposure to extreme heat could pose serious health risks, especially for children, elderly citizens, and outdoor workers.

Rain and Thunderstorms Likely in Northeast and Southern India

While most parts of the country continue to face scorching heat, several northeastern and southern states are expected to receive moderate rainfall and thunderstorms due to Kalbaisakhi activity.

States likely to witness rain and gusty winds include Assam, Arunachal Pradesh, Nagaland, Manipur, Mizoram, Tripura, Kerala, Tamil Nadu, and parts of Andhra Pradesh.

Light Rain Expected in Some Northern and Central States

The weather department has also forecast light rainfall in isolated places across Uttarakhand, Jammu and Kashmir, Madhya Pradesh, Jharkhand, and Chhattisgarh over the next few days.

The IMD has advised people to avoid direct sunlight during peak afternoon hours and remain hydrated as the severe heatwave continues across large parts of the country.