PTC Web Desk: While higher regions of Himachal Pradesh are likely to receive fresh spells of snowfall and widespread rainfall until April 19 under a yellow alert, much of India is bracing for a severe heatwave that is rapidly intensifying.

The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has attributed the sudden spike in temperatures to clear skies, dry winds and the lack of active western disturbances, factors that are accelerating heat buildup across the country.

Over the next couple of weeks, several parts of India are expected to witness maximum temperatures ranging between 43°C and 45°C. In fact, many regions have already started recording temperatures between 40°C and 43°C, which is significantly above normal.

Meteorological data indicates that temperatures in some areas are currently 4°C to 8°C higher than seasonal averages, raising concerns about a prolonged and intense summer this year.

In North India, including Chandigarh, Punjab, Haryana and Delhi, the weather is expected to remain partly cloudy over the next two days, with temperatures hovering around 38°C. However, forecasts suggest a steep rise soon, with mercury levels likely to touch 44°C within the coming week, as per weather models like AccuWeather.

Worst-hit regions

States such as Maharashtra, Gujarat, Madhya Pradesh, Rajasthan, along with parts of South India, are already experiencing extreme heat. Several cities in these regions have recorded temperatures exceeding 42–43°C, prompting heatwave alerts.

Growing concerns

Experts caution that India could be heading toward a hotter-than-usual summer, with frequent and intense heatwave spells expected in the coming weeks.

Authorities have urged people to take necessary precautions, including staying hydrated, avoiding direct sun exposure during peak hours, and being alert to symptoms of heat-related illnesses.

The rising temperatures are also expected to put pressure on agriculture, public health and electricity demand as the country moves deeper into the summer season.