Madhya Pradesh is experiencing an intense heatwave, with temperatures soaring to record highs despite intermittent pre-monsoon showers and storms. On Sunday, the state recorded its highest temperature of the season, with the mercury touching 44.8°C in Nowgong, Chhatarpur district. This marks the first time this year that temperatures have crossed the 44°C threshold during the May-June period, intensifying concerns about the ongoing heatwave.
According to the India Meteorological Department (IMD), 21 cities across Madhya Pradesh recorded maximum temperatures of 40°C or higher. Tikamgarh reported a scorching 43.7°C, while Khajuraho and Shivpuri both recorded 43.6°C. Gwalior, one of the state’s major cities, saw the highest temperature at 43.4°C, while Bhopal registered 41.6°C, Jabalpur 42.2°C, Ujjain 41.2°C, and Indore recorded 38.7°C.
The IMD has issued a heatwave alert for Monday in parts of northern and central Madhya Pradesh, including Gwalior, Bhind, Morena, Tikamgarh, Niwari, Chhatarpur, and Panna. The heatwave conditions are expected to continue, and authorities are urging residents in these areas to take necessary precautions to protect themselves from the severe heat.
Contrasting weather patterns were observed on Saturday, as light rainfall brought temporary relief to areas like Indore, Narmadapuram, and Sendhwa (Barwani). However, 13 cities across the state saw daytime temperatures soaring above 40°C, with Khajuraho and Guna both reaching 42.2°C. Other cities like Shajapur, Satna, Tikamgarh, and Shivpuri continued to experience extreme heat.
Simultaneously, the IMD has also forecasted thunderstorms and rain activity in several southern districts of Madhya Pradesh, including Seoni, Chhindwara, Pandhurna, Betul, Khandwa, Burhanpur, Khargone, and Barwani. These thunderstorms are expected to bring short but intense rain showers, offering some relief from the oppressive heat.
The delay in the arrival of the southwest monsoon has added to the challenging weather conditions. Initially expected to reach Madhya Pradesh in early June, the monsoon remains stalled over parts of Maharashtra and Chhattisgarh for over ten days. This delay is further exacerbating the heatwave conditions across northern and central parts of the state.
As the southwest monsoon struggles to advance, the ongoing combination of thunderstorms, brief showers, and extreme heat has made life difficult for residents, particularly in the state’s more heat-prone regions. Authorities are closely monitoring the situation and have advised residents to stay hydrated, avoid direct exposure to the sun, and take frequent breaks in shaded or air-conditioned environments.
The IMD has also urged people to be cautious of heat-related illnesses, such as heatstroke, dehydration, and exhaustion. With the monsoon’s delayed arrival, experts suggest that the heatwave conditions might persist, and residents must remain vigilant and follow weather updates to mitigate risks associated with extreme temperatures.
In addition to the ongoing heatwave, the IMD predicts that the delay in the monsoon’s arrival will continue to influence the weather patterns, creating a volatile mix of heat, humidity, and sporadic rain. The long wait for the monsoon has put a strain on farmers and residents, and there is growing concern about water scarcity and the impact on crops.
As Madhya Pradesh remains under the grip of intense heat, local authorities, along with the IMD, are working to ensure public safety and provide necessary support for residents affected by the extreme weather. With the monsoon expected to reach the state after June 10, people are urged to take extra precautions and remain informed about the changing weather conditions.
