Several parts of the country experienced an intense heatwave on Friday, with temperatures reaching as high as 48 degrees Celsius in multiple regions, prompting citizens to resort to various measures to beat the heat.
Health authorities issued advisories, warning that prolonged exposure to extreme heat could cause serious heat-related illnesses, particularly among children, senior citizens, and those with pre-existing conditions.
The advisory urged citizens to stay hydrated, avoid direct sunlight exposure during peak hours, wear light cotton clothing, and consume a healthy diet that includes seasonal fruits and electrolyte-rich fluids.
IMD Issues Heatwave Warning
The Indian Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued a warning, saying heatwave to severe heatwave conditions
are likely to prevail across northwest, central, eastern, and parts of peninsular India till May 28.
Maximum Temperatures (as on 21-05-2026):
Yesterday, Maximum temperatures were in the range of 40-47°C over northwest, West, Central adjoining East & north Peninsular India.Yesterday the highest maximum temperature of 47.6°C was reported at BANDA (UTTAR PRADESH).#HeatWave… pic.twitter.com/BdRjXnhkqU
— India Meteorological Department (@Indiametdept) May 22, 2026
Severe heatwave conditions are likely to grip East Uttar Pradesh and East Madhya Pradesh between May 22 and 28, said the IMD, cautioning citizens against the extreme weather.
The weather body has also predicted heatwave conditions across Punjab, Haryana, and Delhi during the same period, with intense heatwave spells likely between May 24 and May 27.
In addition, Rajasthan is likely to continue experiencing heatwave conditions, with extreme spells likely between May 24 and May 28.
Several other states — Chhattisgarh, Jharkhand, Odisha, Telangana, Coastal Andhra Pradesh and parts of the Himalayan states — are likely to see heatwave conditions on different days through the week, the IMD said.
According to the weather body, maximum temperatures fell in the range of 40-47 degrees Celsius over northwest, West, Central adjoining East and north Peninsular India, with Uttar Pradesh’s Banda experiencing the highest at 47.6 degrees Celsius.
Delhi Reels Under Severe Heat
The national capital continues to grapple with several heatwave conditions, with the city recording a maximum temperature of 43.3 degrees Celsius
The MeT Department has warned of heatwave conditions for Delhi till May 28, saying the mercury could rise to 45 degrees Celsius in the coming days.
Although the capital witnessed light rain and cool winds Saturday morning, authorities say they are unlikely to bring relief from the daytime temperatures.
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