IMD Warns of Rains in South, Heatwaves in North
The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued a comprehensive weather forecast alerting the country to sharply contrasting conditions. While heavy to very heavy rainfall is expected in parts of southern and northeastern India over the coming days, states in northern and northwestern India will continue to face intense heatwave conditions.
Heavy Rains Predicted for South and Northeast
As per IMD’s latest advisory, Tamil Nadu, Kerala, Karnataka, and coastal Andhra Pradesh are likely to witness widespread rainfall between May 18 and May 24. Thunderstorms, lightning, and isolated very heavy showers may cause localized flooding in low-lying areas and urban pockets. The IMD has urged people in these regions to stay alert, especially during peak hours of rainfall.
In the Northeast, Arunachal Pradesh is likely to receive heavy rains between May 18 and 20. Assam and Meghalaya may face persistent rainfall with wind speeds of 30–50 kmph from May 18 to 24. Tripura and Nagaland are also expected to receive heavy spells on May 18, raising concerns over landslides and disruptions to transport.
UP and Rajasthan Battle Relentless Heatwave
While the South prepares for rains, parts of North India are experiencing record-breaking temperatures. Uttar Pradesh’s Banda recorded the highest temperature in the country at 46.2°C. Other cities including Prayagraj, Kanpur, Jhansi, and Varanasi have also reported temperatures well above 45°C.
Rajasthan is no exception. Cities like Sriganganagar touched 46°C, with no immediate respite expected until May 22. The IMD has advised vulnerable groups, particularly the elderly and children, to avoid prolonged exposure to the sun and remain hydrated. Health departments across these states have issued heatstroke advisories.
Mixed Conditions in Delhi and Central India
Delhi is expected to experience partly cloudy skies, with light rain and thunderstorms accompanied by gusty winds of up to 40 kmph. The capital’s maximum temperature will hover around 38–40°C, offering temporary relief from severe heat.
Elsewhere in Central India, conditions remain mixed with varying levels of humidity, sporadic showers, and dry spells continuing to alternate across Madhya Pradesh, Chhattisgarh, and parts of Vidarbha.
Authorities have urged people to stay informed through IMD bulletins and to take preventive measures depending on local conditions — whether it’s heavy rainfall risks in the South or heatwave threats in the North.
