India Heatwave Alert: Delhi-NCR Sizzles, Kerala On Orange Alert, Schools Change Timings

Several parts of India are currently facing intense heatwave conditions, with temperatures crossing 40°C in many regions. As the heat continues to rise, authorities have started taking precautionary steps, including revising school timings to protect students.

According to the India Meteorological Department, the extreme weather is expected to continue over the next few days across multiple states.

Heatwave Conditions Across Multiple States

The IMD has warned that heatwave conditions are likely in several parts of the country, including:

• Punjab, Haryana, Chandigarh and Delhi
• West Uttar Pradesh, Bihar, Jharkhand, and Odisha
• Rajasthan and Madhya Pradesh
• Parts of Kerala and Gangetic West Bengal

Rajasthan is expected to face prolonged heatwave conditions from April 23 to April 29, while Madhya Pradesh may experience similar weather until April 27.
Delhi-NCR Faces Severe Heat

The Delhi-NCR region is among the worst affected areas, with temperatures expected to range between 42°C and 44°C.

The weather department has predicted:

• Clear skies with heatwave conditions
• Warm nights with above-normal temperatures
• Strong surface winds during the day

Such conditions can increase the risk of dehydration and heat-related illnesses.
Kerala on Orange Alert, Heat-Related Death Reported
Kerala is also witnessing intense heat, with the IMD issuing an orange alert in several districts.

Temperatures are expected to reach:

• Around 41°C in Palakkad
• Close to 40°C in Kollam and Thrissur

A heat-related death has also been reported in Kannur, highlighting the seriousness of the situation.

Authorities have urged people to stay cautious, avoid direct sunlight, and stay hydrated.

Schools Revise Timings to Protect Students

In response to the extreme heat, local administrations in cities like Patna and Jaipur have revised school timings.

In Jaipur:

Schools (up to Class 8) will operate from 7:30 AM to 12:00 noon starting April 27
This step aims to reduce students' exposure to peak afternoon heat.

Hot and Humid Conditions in Coastal Regions

Apart from heatwaves, several coastal regions are experiencing hot and humid weather, including:

• Konkan and Odisha
• Coastal Andhra Pradesh and Karnataka
• Tamil Nadu and parts of Gujarat

These conditions can feel more uncomfortable due to high moisture levels in the air.
Rain and Thunderstorm Relief in Some Areas
While most regions face heat, some parts of eastern and northeastern India may get temporary relief.

The IMD has forecast:

Light to moderate rainfall with thunderstorms in Sub-Himalayan West Bengal, Sikkim, Odisha, Bihar, and Jharkhand

Gusty winds and lightning in northeastern states like Assam, Meghalaya, and Tripura
However, these conditions are expected to be scattered and short-lived.