Delhi’s weather is set for a dramatic shift as the India Meteorological Department (IMD) issues a series of alerts for heavy rainfall, strong winds, and even hailstorms in multiple regions of the country, including the capital. A cyclonic circulation formed over central Maharashtra has triggered this unusual weather pattern, which is expected to last for several days, significantly impacting daily life and possibly causing disruptions.
Starting from April 2, heavy rains accompanied by lightning are expected to hit parts of Gujarat and Telangana, with wind speeds reaching up to 60 kilometres per hour. These regions will experience thunderstorms and possible hailstorms. As the weather system moves eastward, similar conditions are expected to impact Central India, including states like Odisha, Madhya Maharashtra, and Marathwada, stretching until April 4. In Tamil Nadu, Puducherry, Kerala, and Karnataka, rainfall is expected to continue until April 5.
Among the most concerning weather phenomena is the possibility of hailstorms. These severe conditions are particularly anticipated in parts of central Maharashtra and Marathwada on April 2. Additionally, areas like Madhya Pradesh, Vidarbha, Chhattisgarh, South Interior Karnataka, and Telangana are all under a hailstorm alert, with conditions expected to persist through April 4. Jharkhand and Odisha are also on high alert for hailstorms on April 3, while Coastal Karnataka is not expected to be spared, with hailstorms likely until April 4.
In contrast to the cold front, the IMD has also warned of intense heatwaves in other regions. The state of Saurashtra and Kutch in Gujarat are predicted to experience heatwaves on April 2, while western Rajasthan is expected to face a severe heat spell from April 5 to 7. These extreme weather conditions pose a threat not only to public health but also to the agricultural sector, which is highly vulnerable to both floods and heatwaves.
As the temperature rises in northern and western parts of India, the IMD forecasts an increase of 3-5 degrees Celsius in the maximum temperature over the next few days. The northern region, which has already been dealing with fluctuating weather patterns, will experience another shift, with temperatures expected to peak in the coming days. On the other hand, Central India and Maharashtra may see a slight dip in temperatures of 2-4 degrees Celsius over the next three days before temperatures begin to climb again in the following week.
With weather patterns becoming increasingly unpredictable, experts caution that this erratic weather could become a regular feature of the changing climate. As Delhi continues to grapple with a mix of rain, hailstorms, and extreme heat, residents are urged to stay updated on weather forecasts and take necessary precautions. Local authorities and the public alike will need to prepare for possible disruptions, whether in transportation, daily routines, or agriculture. The unpredictable nature of this weather pattern highlights the ongoing challenges posed by climate change, with its far-reaching impacts on public infrastructure, health, and the environment.
While many areas of the country are accustomed to these seasonal shifts, the growing frequency and intensity of such extreme weather events demand more proactive measures to address climate resilience. Urban centres like Delhi, already dealing with air pollution and urban heat islands, are particularly vulnerable to these sudden changes. Adaptation strategies and sustainable urban planning will play a crucial role in mitigating the impacts of such erratic weather events on public life. For now, however, all eyes will be on the IMD’s continuous updates as Delhi braces for what could be a challenging week of weather.
