A severe heatwave has engulfed large parts of India, with over 20 cities already crossing the 42°C mark in early April. The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued multiple alerts, warning of dangerously high temperatures, abnormally warm nights, and increased risk of heat-related health issues across several states.
Record-Breaking Temperatures Across States
Delhi, Rajasthan, Punjab, Haryana, Gujarat, and Madhya Pradesh are among the worst affected. Twenty-seven weather stations across Gujarat, Rajasthan, Maharashtra, and Madhya Pradesh have reported temperatures of 43°C or higher. Barmer in Rajasthan reached a staggering 46.4°C, while Jalgaon in Maharashtra touched 42.5°C. Delhi recorded 40°C during the day and a night temperature of 25.6°C—its warmest April night in the past three years. Air quality has also declined, with Delhi’s AQI reaching a “poor” level of 209.
Unusual Heat in Early April
This extreme heat is particularly alarming as it’s only the start of April. IMD officials warn that the early onset could signal a prolonged and intense summer. In Uttar Pradesh, temperatures are projected to remain above 40°C throughout April, May, and June, with Bundelkhand likely to be the hardest hit.
Mumbai Heat Melts Road
Mumbai is also suffering, though its maximum temperature peaked at 34°C. The high humidity made the conditions stifling, and a road near the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) headquarters reportedly melted due to the heat. The IMD has issued a yellow alert for the city, cautioning of moderate health risks for vulnerable populations such as children, the elderly, and outdoor workers.
Contrasting Weather in Southern India
While northern and central India face blistering heat, southern India is experiencing contrasting weather. Telangana has seen unusually hot conditions in cities like Hyderabad and Nizamabad, alongside sporadic rainfall. In Andhra Pradesh, thunderstorms, lightning, and gusty winds are expected to continue until mid-April. The IMD attributes this pattern to a low-pressure area and cyclonic circulation over the Bay of Bengal. Though these showers may offer brief relief, they also pose the risk of flash floods and storm damage.
Heatwave’s Impact on Birds in Mumbai
The rising temperatures have not spared wildlife. In March, 81 birds were admitted to the Bai Sakarbai Dinshaw Petit Hospital for Animals in Mumbai with symptoms of dehydration. According to Dr. Mayur Dangar, the hospital’s manager, the lack of accessible water sources in the city has made survival difficult for birds, especially larger ones like kites. Among the rescued were kites, pigeons, crows, parrots, and ducks. Between March 1 and May 31, the hospital treated 160 birds, showing a 30% increase in heat-related animal rescues compared to previous years. Most birds recover within a few days with electrolyte solutions or saline treatment in severe cases.
IMD Urges Precaution as Heatwave Intensifies
With the summer heat ramping up rapidly, the IMD has advised citizens to take protective measures—stay hydrated, avoid sun exposure during peak hours, and care for vulnerable individuals and animals. As April unfolds, the ongoing heatwave stands as another stark reminder of the increasing frequency and severity of climate-related events across the country.
