As temperatures soar across North India, the contrast in weather conditions between the north and south of the country could not be starker. While Delhi and Punjab remain on high alert due to a persistent and punishing heatwave, states like Telangana and Karnataka are experiencing the soothing embrace of monsoon rains. The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued detailed advisories for multiple regions, underscoring the dual nature of India’s climate this week.
Scorching Heat in Delhi: Red Alert in Force
The capital city of Delhi continued to simmer on Wednesday under a relentless heatwave. The IMD issued a red alert, warning residents of severe heat-related health risks, especially for vulnerable groups such as the elderly, children, and those with chronic illnesses.
Temperatures across Delhi ranged from 40.9°C in Mayur Vihar to a blistering 45.0°C in Ayanagar, with multiple other localities recording values well above the 43°C mark. The heat index—a combination of actual temperature and humidity that indicates how hot it feels—soared to 51.9°C, making conditions nearly unbearable in many parts of the city.
Energy consumption mirrored the temperature surge, as Delhi registered its highest power demand of the summer at 8,231 MW at 10:55 pm on Wednesday, according to the State Load Dispatch Centre (SLDC). Air conditioning, cooling appliances, and refrigeration units worked overtime as residents sought refuge from the oppressive heat.
Relief in Sight After June 13
However, there may be some respite on the horizon. IMD scientists noted that a western disturbance is expected to affect northwest India starting June 13 (Thursday night). This could result in light rain and thunderstorms in Delhi, beginning Friday and continuing over the weekend.
“The severe heat is expected to persist till Thursday. A western disturbance is likely to affect northwest India from the night of June 13, which may bring light rain and thunderstorms in Delhi,” said Naresh Kumar, senior IMD scientist, as quoted by PTI.
While the red alert remains in effect for the city through Thursday, gradual temperature drops and cloud cover are anticipated starting Friday evening, potentially easing the discomfort.
Punjab Scorches Under Heatwave
Much like Delhi, Punjab also remains under a red alert for June 12 and 13, with the IMD forecasting heat wave to severe heat wave conditions. The region continues to experience dry weather and above-normal temperatures, prompting state authorities to advise caution and ensure availability of drinking water and medical aid in public places.
IMD's bulletin warns that heatwave conditions are likely to persist across northwest India and the western Himalayan region until June 13, after which a slow reduction in temperatures is forecast.
Southern India: A Welcome Change in Weather
While northern India battles the heat, southern states are seeing an entirely different weather picture, as the southwest monsoon has picked up pace.
Telangana: Heavy Rainfall in 10 Districts
The IMD has issued heavy rainfall alerts for 10 districts in Telangana on June 12. Areas likely to be affected include:
Adilabad
Kumaram Bheem Asifabad
Jagtial
Vikarabad
Sangareddy
Mahabubnagar
Nagarkurnool
Wanaparthy
Narayanpet
Jogulamba Gadwal
The weather department has also warned of thunderstorms accompanied by lightning and gusty winds in isolated areas throughout the state. Authorities are urging farmers and local administrations to take precautionary measures, especially in low-lying and flood-prone areas.
Karnataka: Monsoon Rains Till June 17
Karnataka has seen renewed rainfall activity since Thursday morning, offering relief after a brief dry spell. According to the IMD, monsoon showers are expected to continue across several regions of the state till June 17. This is good news for the agriculture sector and water reservoirs, which had been anxiously awaiting consistent rainfall.
The monsoon's arrival is also expected to bring down daytime temperatures, reducing the heat stress that parts of Karnataka were experiencing earlier this month.
IMD’s Broader Forecast: What Lies Ahead
According to the IMD’s latest national bulletin:
East India will experience no significant change in maximum temperatures for the next 24 hours, followed by a 2–3°C drop over the next three days.
For the rest of India, no major shifts in maximum temperatures are expected over the coming week.
Heatwave conditions will subside gradually starting June 14 across northwest India.
Final Thoughts
India’s vast and varied geography means that weather conditions can range from desert-like heat in the north to tropical rains in the south—all within the same day. As Delhi and Punjab wait anxiously for relief from the scorching sun, residents in Telangana and Karnataka are dealing with the challenges and blessings of the monsoon.
If you’re in a heatwave-affected area, stay hydrated, avoid direct sun exposure, and take necessary precautions. If you're in the rain-hit zones, be cautious of waterlogging and lightning. Regardless of where you are, the IMD’s advisories are essential tools for staying safe and planning your day effectively.