April 27, 2026
A severe heat wave that pushed temperatures above 45°C in parts of northern India is expected to ease in Delhi over the next few days, but scorching conditions will persist across other regions.
The India Meteorological Department (IMD) forecast thunderstorms and rain for the capital on April 28 and 29, with Delhi recording a maximum of about 42.1°C on Monday. The IMD had issued a yellow heat wave alert for New Delhi last week; a heat wave is declared when maximum temperatures exceed 40°C. Officials expect little change in Delhi’s maximum temperature over the next 24 hours, followed by a decline of 4–6°C over the subsequent three days.
Despite the expected respite in the capital, extreme heat has affected wide swathes of the country. Temperatures exceeded 45°C in several locations across northern India during the past week. States including Uttar Pradesh, Madhya Pradesh, Chhattisgarh, Maharashtra and Odisha recorded above-normal temperatures, with many districts experiencing hot to extremely hot conditions. Western Maharashtra’s Akola reported a scorching 46.9°C, according to the IMD.
The weather agency warned that “scorching conditions” would continue over parts of northwest and central India for the next three days, keeping heat-related risks high for vulnerable populations, outdoor workers and livestock. Authorities have been monitoring conditions and issuing advisories, while the forecast rain and thunderstorms offer limited but timely relief for the capital.
As parts of India begin to cool, other regions will need ongoing heat preparedness measures, including hydration, limiting outdoor exposure during peak heat hours, and ensuring support for those most at risk from extreme temperatures.