
The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued alerts for thunderstorms, gusty winds, hailstorms, and heavy rainfall across several states due to active weather systems. While parts of East and Northeast India are likely to witness intense rain and squalls, regions in Rajasthan, Gujarat, and Maharashtra are bracing for heat wave conditions and rising temperatures. Here are all the details
Weather Systems at Play
Three upper air cyclonic circulations have been identified over southwest Rajasthan, east Madhya Pradesh, and east Assam. In addition, troughs are extending across large parts of India—from southwest Rajasthan to the Gulf of Mannar, east Madhya Pradesh to Gangetic West Bengal, and from Sikkim to north Odisha in the mid-level westerlies. These weather patterns are influencing widespread activity across east, northeast, central, and southern India.
Rainfall and Thunderstorm Forecast
The IMD predicts scattered to fairly widespread rainfall with thunderstorm activity across various regions. Gusty winds ranging from 30–60 kmph may accompany these events.
Rainfall Forecast (April 17–22)
Region |
Rainfall & Storm Type |
Dates Affected |
Northeast & East India |
Light/moderate rain, thunderstorm, gusty winds (40–50 kmph) |
April 17–20 |
Chhattisgarh, Vidarbha |
Isolated rain, hailstorm, gusty winds (40–50 kmph) |
April 17 |
Heavy rainfall, thundersquall (50–60 kmph) |
April 17–18 |
|
Assam & Meghalaya |
Heavy rainfall |
April 17, 20–22 |
Arunachal Pradesh |
Heavy rainfall |
April 20–22 |
Gangetic West Bengal |
Thundersquall (50–60 kmph) |
April 17–18 |
South India (TN, AP, TS, KA) |
Light/moderate rain, gusty winds (30–40 kmph) |
April 17–20 |
Kerala & Mahe |
Scattered rain, gusty winds (40–50 kmph) |
April 17–19 |
Tamil Nadu, Puducherry |
Heavy rainfall |
April 17 |
Western Himalayan Region to Witness Western Disturbance
A strong western disturbance is likely to impact the Western Himalayan Region from April 17 to April 20. Thunderstorms, lightning, and gusty winds (40–50 kmph) are expected, along with the possibility of isolated hailstorms.
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Jammu & Kashmir, Ladakh, Himachal Pradesh: Isolated heavy rainfall and hailstorms on April 18–19.
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Adjoining Northwest Plains: Rain, thunderstorm, and lightning from April 18–20.
Dust Storm Alert for Rajasthan
IMD has issued a dust storm and thunderstorm alert for parts of Rajasthan. Both West Rajasthan and East Rajasthan are likely to experience dust storms or thunderstorms on April 17. Residents in the affected regions are advised to take necessary precautions, avoid outdoor activities during peak hours, and stay updated with local weather alerts to ensure safety.
Rising Temperatures and Heat Wave Warnings
With temperatures climbing in several parts of the country, the IMD has warned of heat wave and severe heat wave conditions, particularly across northwest India.
Temperature and Heat Wave Forecast
Region |
Temperature Trend |
Heat Wave Warning |
Northwest India |
Rise by 2–4°C till April 18, fall thereafter |
Severe heat wave in West Rajasthan (Apr 17–18) |
Central India |
Rise by 2–3°C till April 20 |
Heat wave in East Rajasthan (Apr 17–19) |
Gradual rise from April 17 onwards |
Hot & humid in Marathwada & Madhya Maharashtra (Apr 17–20) |
|
Gujarat |
No change for 2 days, fall by 2–3°C later |
Heat wave (Apr 17); hot & humid (Apr 17) |
Uttar Pradesh |
No major change |
Warm night conditions (Apr 17–18) |
Delhi NCR Forecast: Heat Wave Likely
Delhi and surrounding NCR areas are expected to remain dry but hot, with rising maximum temperatures and strong surface winds over the next few days.
Date |
Sky Condition |
Temperature (Max/Min °C) |
Wind Speed & Direction |
Apr 17 |
Partly cloudy |
39–41 / 24–26 |
SE-NW winds 8–14 kmph |
Apr 18 |
Partly cloudy |
39–41 / 23–25 |
Gusts up to 40 kmph from SW |
Apr 19 |
Partly cloudy |
38–40 / 25–27 |
SW winds 14–20 kmph, light at night |
The IMD has urged citizens in heat-affected areas to take precautions such as staying hydrated, avoiding direct sunlight during peak hours, and checking weather updates regularly. Those in regions with thunderstorm or heavy rain forecasts are advised to stay indoors during intense weather activity and secure loose objects.
Farmers in central and eastern India should take note of hailstorm and thundersquall alerts and take preventive measures to protect crops.