IMD Heatwave Alert 2026: These 7 States Set to Sizzle Till April 23; Is Your City on the Danger List?

Summer is at its peak in India, with temperatures spiking, and the India Meteorological Department has issued a heatwave alert for multiple states. According to the latest IMD weather update dated April 18, several regions across Northwest, Central, and East India are expected to face intense heatwave conditions over the coming days.

States including Uttar Pradesh, Madhya Pradesh, Odisha, Jharkhand, Rajasthan, Andhra Pradesh, and Telangana are currently under alert, as rising mercury levels trigger widespread concern.

Heatwave Alert in India: State-Wise IMD Forecast and Dates

As per the IMD heatwave forecast, different states will experience peak heat conditions on varying dates between April 19 and April 23. East Uttar Pradesh, East Rajasthan, and East Madhya Pradesh are likely to remain under heatwave conditions for an extended period from April 19 to April 23. Jharkhand is expected to face extreme heat on April 20 and 21, while West Uttar Pradesh may see severe conditions between April 20 and April 22. Meanwhile, West Rajasthan is likely to remain under heatwave alert until April 23. Regions like Punjab, Haryana, Chandigarh, and Odisha are also expected to experience intense heat from April 21 to April 23.

The IMD has also flagged West Madhya Pradesh, Vidarbha, and Chhattisgarh for heatwave conditions on April 19 and 20, indicating a broader rise in temperatures across India. Yellow alerts have been issued in several regions, expecting dangerous weather conditions that require caution.

IMD Weather Update

A heatwave alert in India is issued when temperatures rise significantly above normal levels, posing health risks. The current IMD warning highlights the need for people to avoid prolonged exposure to direct sunlight, especially during peak afternoon hours. Vulnerable groups such as children, elderly individuals, and outdoor workers are at higher risk of heat-related illnesses like dehydration and heatstroke.

This IMD heatwave warning April 2026 aligns with broader seasonal trends. According to previous outlooks, states like Rajasthan, Gujarat, Punjab, Haryana, Bihar, and Jharkhand frequently experience above-normal heatwave conditions between March and May, making this period particularly critical for public health preparedness.

How to Stay Safe During Extreme Heat

With temperatures soaring, the IMD advisory stresses simple but crucial precautions. Citizens are urged to stay hydrated, wear light clothing, and limit outdoor activities during peak hours. Keeping homes cool and checking on vulnerable individuals can also help reduce risks during this ongoing heatwave spell.

As the India heatwave alert April 2026 continues, authorities and residents alike are bracing for sustained high temperatures, making awareness and precaution key to staying safe.