Stay Hydrated, Protect Vulnerable Groups, Offer Water To Those In Need: PM Modi Appeals Amid Heatwave

Prime Minister Narendra Modi has urged people across India to protect themselves from the severe heat as temperatures climb in many states. The appeal comes while the India Meteorological Department (IMD) forecasts heatwave to severe heatwave conditions over large parts of central and northwest India during the next three to four days.

On Wednesday, Delhi recorded a maximum temperature of 45 degrees Celsius and a minimum of 26 degrees Celsius, according to IMD data. The weather office expects heatwave conditions to persist over Punjab, Haryana, Chandigarh and Delhi on May 27 and May 28, with severe heatwave likely at isolated locations in Punjab, Haryana and Uttar Pradesh.

Heatwave alerts and Heatwave Action Plan 2026 across India

The IMD bulletin reported severe heatwave conditions in many parts of Chhattisgarh, while isolated areas of east Uttar Pradesh and east Madhya Pradesh also faced extreme temperatures. Heatwave conditions were additionally observed in parts of Uttarakhand, Haryana, Rajasthan, Bihar, Odisha, Telangana and coastal Andhra Pradesh, keeping health agencies and local administrations on high alert.

Officials have advised residents in affected regions to avoid direct sunlight during peak afternoon hours and to drink sufficient fluids throughout the day. Authorities also stressed the need to seek urgent medical care if people experience symptoms linked to heat stress, such as dizziness, exhaustion, confusion or signs of dehydration, especially among older persons and children.

Government response and Heatwave Action Plan 2026 measures in Delhi

Delhi Chief Minister Rekha Gupta stated that the national capital is rolling out the Heatwave Action Plan 2026 in “mission mode” under the guidance of the Prime Minister, with public safety placed at the centre. Gupta said the plan focuses on rapid relief and preparation to limit the impact of extreme temperatures on residents.

Detailing the measures in a post on X, Gupta said more than 10 lakh oral rehydration solution (ORS) packets are being distributed, and mobile heat relief vans are operating across the city. Schools are activating the water bell system, while special arrangements are being created for drinking water and cooling points for animals and birds in different localities.

Gupta wrote that the programme reflects a "compassionate, prepared and people-centric governance" model aimed at reducing risks during the current heat spell. The X post added: "Under the leadership of Hon'ble Prime Minister Shri @narendramodi Ji and the vision of a compassionate, prepared and people-centric governance, Delhi's Heatwave Action Plan 2026 is being implemented at mission mode.🟧 10 lakh+ ORS packets distributed🟧 Mobile Heat Relief Vans… pic.twitter.com/NjO4BlqYnY— Rekha Gupta (@gupta_rekha) May 27, 2026".

PM’s advisory and Heatwave Action Plan 2026 public guidance

In a separate post on X, PM Modi highlighted the growing strain on daily life due to the weather. Modi wrote, "Temperatures are continuously rising in different parts of the country, and along with this, the many difficulties caused by the heat in daily life are also increasing. I urge all my fellow citizens to take as many precautions as possible."

PM Modi advised people to drink enough water and carry bottles whenever stepping outdoors. The post stated, "Please keep yourselves hydrated and carry water with you when stepping out of your homes. In such weather, your sensitivity also becomes a great source of support. If possible, do offer a glass of water to anyone who is thirsty," urging citizens to extend small acts of help.

The Prime Minister also praised community efforts that provide relief during the hot spell. Modi said, "I also appreciate those people who keep water in pitchers outside their homes and shops so that anyone can drink from them," noting that such gestures support strangers, workers and passersby. The message encouraged people to keep similar arrangements wherever possible.

Heatwave data and Heatwave Action Plan 2026 monitoring

Key details from the IMD update and recorded temperatures in major regions are given below for clarity.

Health authorities advised that people showing any heat-related warning signs should be moved to a cooler place and given fluids, if conscious. Residents have been asked to check on neighbours, especially older or sick persons, as rising heat and humidity over several days may worsen existing health problems and strain basic services like water supply.

With forecasts pointing to continuing heatwave to severe heatwave conditions in several states, government agencies at central and local levels are stressing preventive care, early treatment and community support. The Prime Minister’s message, IMD alerts and Delhi’s Heatwave Action Plan 2026 together underline official efforts to manage risks as temperatures climb across many regions.

With inputs from ANI