As several regions across India are anticipated to endure relentless heatwave conditions, sporadic showers and thunderstorms have brought temporary relief to some. Notably, the Northern Plains, including Punjab, Haryana, and Delhi/NCR must stay prepared for hotter days ahead, with temperatures expected to soar between May 17 and 19.
Residents in Chandigarh and parts of southern Haryana and Punjab should be set for temperatures reaching 44-46 degrees Celsius between May 16 and 18. Northern parts of Haryana and Punjab, including Chandigarh, are expected to experience temperatures ranging from 41 to 44 degrees Celsius during this period, which may lead to heatwave conditions.
Major cities like Amritsar, Jalandhar, and Bathinda are likely to be harshly affected, with some areas witnessing the hottest days of the year with temperatures above 45 degrees Celsius. Delhi will experience its first heatwave of the season, with temperatures expected to reach 44 degrees Celsius.
The IMD's warning extends to other regions of Northwest India as well. West Rajasthan will be affected by the heatwave for the next 3-4 days, while West Uttar Pradesh, Punjab, East Rajasthan, and South Haryana will experience it from May 16 to 18. East Uttar Pradesh will face severe heat on May 16 and 17, and Northwest Madhya Pradesh and Bihar on May 17 and 18.
Moreover, Southern Peninsular India is expected to get some relief with heavy rainfall, thunderstorms, lightning, and gusty winds until May 17. The southwest monsoon is predicted to advance into the South Andaman Sea, parts of the Southeast Bay of Bengal, and the Nicobar Islands around May 19, bringing some relief to these areas.