Brutal Heatwave Grips India: Brahmapuri Records Scorching 45.5°C, IMD Warns of Prolonged Heat

A severe heatwave continues to sear several parts of India, with Brahmapuri in Vidarbha emerging as the hottest location on Friday, clocking a blistering 45.5°C, according to the India Meteorological Department (IMD). The rising temperatures have raised widespread concern, especially with forecasts indicating little to no relief over the next three days.

Heatwave Conditions Across Northern and Central India

The IMD has reported that Jammu, Punjab, Haryana, Delhi, Uttar Pradesh, Bihar, and parts of Rajasthan, Madhya Pradesh, Vidarbha, and Marathwada experienced 3-5°C above-normal maximum temperatures. Similar conditions were observed in eastern Jharkhand, the western coastal Gangetic belt, and regions of Sub-Himalayan West Bengal and Sikkim.

Several locations in Vidarbha are witnessing heatwave conditions, with parts of Delhi, Chandigarh, and Uttar Pradesh also reporting oppressive heat and hot winds.

Delhi Sizzles at 41.9°C, Relief Unlikely This Weekend

Delhi recorded a maximum temperature of 41.9°C and a minimum of 23.6°C on Friday. While partly cloudy skies and winds reaching 30 km/h are expected on Saturday, there is little promise of substantial cooling.

Heatwave alerts remain in place for several parts of the national capital, with temperatures on Saturday and Sunday projected to remain between 41–43°C (maximum) and 23–25°C (minimum).

Northeast, Islands Also Heat Up

Unusual warming is not confined to the heartland. Arunachal Pradesh, Northeast Assam, and the Nicobar Islands have also reported maximum temperatures up by 3–5°C. Meanwhile, Northwest India and Northern Madhya Pradesh saw increases of 1–2°C over normal temperatures.

In contrast, no significant temperature change was recorded in many other parts of the country, offering some regional reprieve.

Outlook: No Immediate Respite from Heat

The IMD has advised caution for the next 72 hours, with continued heatwave conditions expected across parts of north, central, and eastern India. Citizens are urged to stay hydrated, avoid peak afternoon exposure, and take protective measures against the heat.

This prolonged spell underscores the increasing intensity and frequency of extreme weather events, further amplifying concerns related to climate change and urban heat island effects in major cities.