IMD Issues Yellow Alert for Delhi, Red Alert for Gujarat as Heat Wave Intensifies Across India

As summer sets in with full force, the India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued heat wave alerts across multiple states, warning of soaring temperatures and prolonged hot weather conditions. Twenty-one cities across five states have already recorded temperatures above 42°C, with more regions likely to be impacted in the coming days.

A red alert has been issued for Gujarat for April 7, warning of severe heat wave conditions in the Saurashtra and Kutch regions. An orange alert will remain in effect from April 8 to 10. Similarly, Delhi has been placed under a yellow alert from April 7 to 9, with maximum temperatures forecasted between 40 to 42 degrees Celsius.

“Heat wave conditions are likely to persist across Gujarat, Rajasthan, Haryana, Chandigarh, Delhi and Punjab during the next 4-5 days,” the IMD said in an official statement on Saturday.

The national capital is expected to witness a sharp rise in temperatures through the early part of the week. Minimum temperatures are likely to remain between 21 to 23 degrees Celsius, with surface winds blowing at 10–12 kmph in the mornings and slowing down to 4–6 kmph by the afternoon.

“The predominant surface wind will likely be from the east direction during morning hours and from the southeast by evening,” the IMD noted. The department has advised citizens, especially the elderly and children, to avoid prolonged exposure to the sun.

Rajasthan has been issued an orange alert for April 7 and 8, followed by a yellow alert for April 9 and 10. Heat wave conditions are likely to continue in the state until April 10, with intensified heat expected between April 7 and 9.

Haryana, Chandigarh, and Punjab are forecasted to face heat wave conditions between April 6 and 10, while West Uttar Pradesh and Madhya Pradesh may experience similar conditions between April 7 and 9 and April 8 and 10, respectively. Himachal Pradesh could see isolated heat wave incidents on April 6 and 7.

According to IMD data, this early onset of extreme heat is unusual and could impact public health and agriculture. The department has advised local administrations to implement heat action plans, ensure water availability, and set up cooling shelters in urban and rural areas.

Health experts recommend staying hydrated, wearing light clothing, and avoiding outdoor activities during peak afternoon hours. Vulnerable populations, such as outdoor workers, the elderly, and children, have been advised to take extra precautions.

With no immediate respite in sight, several states remain on high alert. The IMD continues to monitor the evolving weather patterns and urges citizens to stay informed through official bulletins.