IMD Flags Extreme Weather Divide: Heatwave In North, Thunderstorms To Lash Southern States

India is dealing with a sharp weather split, as parts of North India face a severe heatwave while several southern states come under heavy rain and thunderstorm alerts. The India Meteorological Department (IMD) expects this contrasting pattern, driven by pre-monsoon activity and dry winds, to persist for several more days across large parts of the country.

The IMD has reported that maximum temperatures in northern plains are holding between 43°C and 45°C, with little night-time relief. At the same time, pre-monsoon systems over the southern peninsula are feeding thunderstorms, strong winds and heavy showers. Officials have warned that both heat stress and rain-related hazards may affect transport, health and local services.

India weather: Delhi heatwave and NCR temperatures stay elevated

Delhi remained under intense heat on Monday, with Safdarjung registering a maximum of 43.4°C, the highest of the season so far. Several meteorological stations in the city recorded temperatures above normal, and some locations crossed 44°C. According to the IMD, dry northwesterly winds and the lack of active western disturbances are sustaining the current heatwave conditions.

The heat is not limited to the capital alone, as neighbouring Noida, Ghaziabad and Gurugram also reported daytime temperatures ranging between 40°C and 45°C. Night temperatures have stayed higher than usual in many areas, giving residents limited respite. Air quality in Delhi has weakened as well, with the AQI drifting from the “moderate” bracket towards the “poor” category in several monitoring zones.

India weather: Bengaluru thunderstorms and interior Karnataka showers

Further south, Bengaluru has been placed under a yellow alert for thunderstorms, lightning and gusty winds. Forecasts suggest that the city will see temperatures hovering between 23°C and 35°C over the next few days. The IMD expects regular pre-monsoon showers, supported by local convection, to affect the wider region around Bengaluru.

Interior districts of Karnataka such as Mysuru, Shivamogga, Chikkamagaluru and Kodagu are also set for scattered rain and thunderstorms. Weather models indicate that isolated hailstorms and strong winds are possible in some pockets because of atmospheric instability. Authorities have advised residents to stay alert for sudden downpours, falling branches and temporary power disruptions linked to these storms.

India weather: Kerala heavy rain alerts and coastal warnings

Kerala remains under both orange and yellow alerts for heavy to very heavy rainfall in isolated locations, as an active pre-monsoon phase continues. The IMD has cautioned about strong surface winds, frequent lightning and rough sea conditions along the Kerala coastline. Fishermen have been specifically advised to avoid venturing into the sea during this period.

Winds over the Arabian Sea near Kerala, Karnataka and Lakshadweep may reach up to 60 kmph, with high waves expected. The IMD has extended warnings across parts of the Arabian Sea and Bay of Bengal, citing the threat of rough seas and coastal erosion. Coastal districts in Kerala and sections of southern India are under close watch for unstable sea conditions.

These developments underline the broad contrast in India’s current weather pattern. While North India, including Delhi and adjoining NCR cities, continues to cope with prolonged heatwave stress, the southern states face heavy pre-monsoon rainfall, thunderstorms and sea-related risks. IMD projections suggest that hot, dry conditions in the north and active rainfall in the south are likely to continue through the coming days.