A severe pre-summer heatwave has tightened its grip over large parts of northern India, with Punjab and Haryana emerging among the worst-affected regions as temperatures surged beyond 40°C, according to the India Meteorological Department (IMD).
The IMD reported that maximum temperatures across several regions ranged between 40°C and 44°C, pushing many areas close to or into heatwave conditions. The intense heat has significantly increased daytime discomfort while also driving up demand for water and electricity.
In north India, Haryana, Chandigarh, and Delhi recorded some of the highest temperatures of the season so far. Punjab and western Uttar Pradesh also witnessed above-normal heat, with mercury levels hovering between 40°C and 42°C in multiple districts. Dry and hot winds during afternoon hours have further worsened conditions.
The heatwave impact extended beyond the north, affecting parts of eastern Rajasthan, western Madhya Pradesh, Gujarat, Bihar, Jharkhand, Odisha, and northern Telangana. Many of these regions reported similar high-temperature trends, indicating a widespread pre-monsoon heat build-up.
Meanwhile, relatively milder conditions prevailed in the western Himalayan region and northeastern states, where temperatures stayed below 36°C.
The highest temperature recorded in the country on April 22 was 44.6°C in Jharsuguda, Odisha, highlighting the severity of the ongoing heat spell across central and eastern India.
The IMD has cautioned that persistent high temperatures could increase the risk of heat-related illnesses, particularly among outdoor workers, children, and the elderly, urging people to take necessary precautions during peak daytime hours.
