India Meteorological Department has issued a weather alert for multiple parts of the country as contrasting weather conditions continue across regions. While several northern and western states are experiencing intense heatwave conditions, early monsoon activity has been observed over the south Bay of Bengal and the Andaman and Nicobar Islands region.
According to the India Meteorological Department (IMD), thunderstorms, lightning and rainfall are likely in 16 states over the next few days. Wind speeds ranging from 50 to 70 kilometres per hour are expected in several areas, which may affect normal life.
The IMD said moderate to heavy rainfall accompanied by thunderstorms is likely over northeastern states, Bihar, Jharkhand, West Bengal, Kerala, Tamil Nadu and Karnataka during the next four days. Extremely heavy rainfall is also likely at isolated places in Assam and Meghalaya.
The weather department said early monsoon activity has been observed over the south Bay of Bengal and the Andaman and Nicobar Islands, indicating a shift in weather conditions.
Weather conditions are expected to remain unstable in the National Capital Region over the next few days. Delhi may witness partly cloudy skies along with light rainfall and thunderstorms in some areas.
The temperature in the city may reach 41 degrees Celsius on May 15, while wind speeds may range between 40 and 60 kilometres per hour. The weather is expected to remain relatively clear by May 16, although light winds are likely to continue.
Weather conditions in Uttar Pradesh are expected to remain largely dry. Rainfall activity is likely to remain limited in Lucknow and nearby areas over the next few days.
Some parts of western Uttar Pradesh, including Meerut, Bulandshahr and Shamli, may receive light drizzle. However, rising temperatures and humidity are expected to increase discomfort across most parts of the state.
The IMD has issued an alert for rainfall and b winds in several districts of Bihar between May 14 and May 17. Wind speeds of up to 70 kilometres per hour are likely in some areas on May 16.
Weather activity is expected to remain more active in regions including Darbhanga and Purnia. The weather department has advised people to remain cautious during thunderstorms and lightning activity.
Jharkhand is also likely to witness thunderstorms and moderate rainfall between May 14 and May 18. Cloudy conditions may persist in Ranchi, Jamshedpur and Dhanbad.
Weather conditions may deteriorate in Uttarakhand on May 14. Light to moderate rainfall accompanied by thunderstorms and wind speeds of up to 50 kilometres per hour are likely in hilly areas.
Cool weather conditions are expected in Dehradun, Nainital and Mussoorie. Travellers on Char Dham Yatra routes have been advised to remain cautious due to the risk of slippery roads and landslides.
In Himachal Pradesh, adverse weather conditions are likely between May 15 and May 16. Shimla, Manali and Dharamshala may receive light to moderate rainfall.
Snowfall is also likely in higher altitude areas, which may keep temperatures below normal. The administration has advised caution due to the possibility of landslides and road blockages.
Rajasthan is expected to continue witnessing severe heatwave conditions. The IMD has issued a heatwave alert for western Rajasthan districts from May 15 to May 18.
Temperatures in Jaisalmer, Bikaner and Jodhpur are likely to remain above 45 degrees Celsius. Jaipur and Kota may experience hot winds along with rising humidity levels.
Some eastern parts of the state may receive light rainfall, but most areas are expected to remain under the influence of hot winds.
