From Delhi to Odisha, temperatures are set to hit 44°C in the last week of April
The situation is expected to worsen by April 24 and 25, when heatwave conditions are likely at isolated places across Delhi.
A severe spell of pre-summer heat is set to grip large parts of north and central India, with temperatures forecast to touch 42-44°C across multiple states in the final week of April 2026.
According to the India Meteorological Department, the rising temperatures will impact regions spanning Uttar Pradesh, Delhi, Madhya Pradesh, Maharashtra, Rajasthan, Odisha and Chhattisgarh, signalling an early intensification of heatwave conditions.
An animation tracking seven days of observed temperatures alongside the IMD’s six-day forecast shows a clear build-up of heat across the northern plains, gradually expanding into central and eastern India.
The pattern indicates persistent clear skies and dry westerly winds, conditions that favour rapid daytime heating.
HOW HOT WILL IT BE IN DELHI?
In New Delhi, temperatures are already climbing above seasonal averages. On April 22, maximum temperatures are expected to range between 39°C and 41°C, around 3-5°C above normal at isolated locations.
Strong surface winds of 15-25 kmph during the day may offer brief relief but are unlikely to significantly reduce heat stress.
By April 23, the mercury is forecast to rise further, with maximum temperatures touching 40-42°C and minimum temperatures remaining elevated between 23°C and 25°C. Warmer nights, a key indicator of intensifying heatwaves, reduce the body’s ability to recover from daytime heat.
The situation is expected to worsen by April 24 and 25, when heatwave conditions are likely at isolated places across Delhi. Daytime temperatures could peak between 42°C and 44°C, with persistently above-normal readings across most areas. Winds are expected to remain light to moderate, predominantly from the west and northwest, offering little cooling effect.
Meteorologists note that the combination of clear skies, dry air and weakening wind speeds later in the day is contributing to heat accumulation. Similar conditions are forecast across adjoining states, particularly in Rajasthan, Madhya Pradesh and Uttar Pradesh, where temperatures are also expected to breach the 43°C mark.
The IMD has cautioned that such early-season heatwaves can have significant impacts on public health, agriculture and power demand. Authorities are advising people to avoid prolonged exposure to the sun, stay hydrated and take necessary precautions during peak afternoon hours.
With May, the traditionally hottest month, still ahead, this developing heat pattern raises concerns about a prolonged and intense summer across much of India.