The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued a fresh nationwide weather alert warning of rising heatwave conditions across several northern and central states, while heavy to very heavy rainfall is expected in parts of the Northeast. According to the latest IMD press release dated 19 April 2026, multiple regions of India are likely to face extreme weather over the next few days.
The latest bulletin says heatwave conditions are very likely in isolated pockets of East Uttar Pradesh, East Rajasthan, East Madhya Pradesh, West Uttar Pradesh, Punjab, Haryana, Chandigarh, Odisha, Vidarbha and Chhattisgarh on different dates between 19 April and 23 April. At the same time, rain, thunderstorms, lightning and gusty winds are expected across the Northeast and Himalayan states.
Heatwave Areas and Rising Temperatures
IMD noted that maximum temperatures between 40°C and 45°C were already recorded in parts of Vidarbha, Madhya Pradesh, Chhattisgarh, Telangana and East Uttar Pradesh. The highest temperature on 19 April was 45.0°C, jointly recorded at Rajnandgaon (Chhattisgarh) and Wardha (Vidarbha). Temperatures are likely to rise further by 2°C to 4°C over Northwest India in the coming days.
People in affected states are advised to avoid direct sun exposure, stay hydrated, wear light cotton clothes, and take extra care of children, elderly people and those with health conditions.
Heavy Rain and Thunderstorm Warning
The IMD has also forecast heavy rainfall over Assam & Meghalaya during 19-21 April, while very heavy rainfall is likely over Arunachal Pradesh on 20 and 21 April. Thunderstorms with lightning and gusty winds are expected in Bihar, Sub-Himalayan West Bengal, Sikkim, Himachal Pradesh, Uttarakhand and several northeastern states. Some places may also witness wind speeds of 50 to 70 kmph.
Delhi-NCR is expected to see partly cloudy skies with temperatures between 40°C and 42°C, along with chances of thundery development toward afternoon or evening. However, IMD has not issued a formal heatwave warning for Delhi at present.
With both heat and storm risks active across India, residents are advised to follow local forecasts and official IMD warnings for district-wise updates before planning travel or outdoor activities.
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