A significant change in weather conditions is expected across large parts of India this weekend, bringing relief to regions that have been battling severe heatwave conditions and soaring temperatures.
The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has forecast widespread rainfall, thunderstorms, gusty winds and hailstorms across several states, while temperatures in parts of northwestern India are expected to decline noticeably over the coming days. According to the weather department, multiple atmospheric systems are currently active across the subcontinent, creating favourable conditions for rainfall and cooler weather.
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Multiple weather systems trigger nationwide change
The IMD said cyclonic circulations are active over Pakistan, Assam, the Bay of Bengal and the Arabian Sea. In addition, troughs extending across northern and central India are helping draw moisture inland from surrounding water bodies.
These combined weather systems are expected to trigger rainfall activity across northwestern, central, eastern and peninsular regions of the country. Heavy rainfall has been forecast in parts of Gujarat, western Madhya Pradesh, Tamil Nadu, Kerala, Lakshadweep, coastal Andhra Pradesh, Nagaland, Manipur, Mizoram and Tripura.
The weather department also expects cloud cover, gusty winds and light thundershowers over Delhi and the National Capital Region (NCR). While widespread rainfall may not occur in the capital, changing weather conditions are expected to provide relief from the ongoing heat.
Temperatures likely to drop across northern India
The forecast comes after several states, including Rajasthan, Madhya Pradesh, Punjab, Haryana and Uttar Pradesh, experienced heatwave conditions with temperatures crossing 45 degrees Celsius in many areas.
According to the IMD, maximum temperatures across northwestern India may fall by 5 to 7 degrees Celsius over the next few days. Central India is also expected to witness a gradual decline in temperatures.
Meteorologists say the change could offer much-needed respite to residents after an extended spell of extreme heat.
Hailstorm and dust storm alerts issued
While the changing weather is expected to ease heatwave conditions, authorities have also warned of potentially hazardous weather events. The IMD has issued a hailstorm alert for the Vidarbha region of Maharashtra, where severe hail activity is likely on Saturday.
Western Rajasthan may experience intense dust storms, which could significantly reduce visibility and disrupt transportation services, including road and air travel. Officials have advised residents to remain cautious during thunderstorms and avoid unnecessary outdoor activities during severe weather events.
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Monsoon advances further
The weather department also reported continued progress of the southwest monsoon over the Arabian Sea and Bay of Bengal.
According to the IMD, atmospheric conditions remain favourable for further advancement of the monsoon into additional regions over the coming days. State administrations have begun issuing precautionary advisories, particularly for farmers, travellers and outdoor workers, warning of risks associated with lightning strikes, strong winds and hailstorms.
As the monsoon advances and rain-bearing systems strengthen, weather experts expect several regions currently affected by extreme heat to experience a significant shift in conditions over the next few days.
