Heatwave grips parts of Madhya Pradesh, storms likely in other regions

Madhya Pradesh is witnessing intense weather fluctuations. While parts of the state are under heatwave alert, other regions are likely to see storms and rain over the next few days.

According to the Meteorological Department, a heatwave alert has been issued in eight districts — Gwalior, Bhind, Morena, Sheopur, Shivpuri, Niwari, Tikamgarh and Chhatarpur — for Monday and Tuesday. The Gwalior-Chambal and Sagar divisions will face the most intense heat.

At the same time, thunderstorms and rainfall are expected in Bhopal, Indore, Ujjain, Jabalpur, and Narmadapuram divisions. Weather experts say wind speeds may reach 30 to 50 kilometers per hour on May 21 and 22 across the state.

Despite the rain, many parts of Madhya Pradesh continue to see high temperatures. On Sunday, Khajuraho recorded 43.8°C, Gwalior and Guna 43.7°C, Sidhi 43.4°C, and Shivpuri and Tikamgarh touched 43°C. Other districts like Satna, Rewa, Damoh, Umaria, Sagar, and Raisen also saw temperatures above 40°C. Among major cities, Indore recorded 37.4°C, Bhopal 39.1°C, Ujjain 39°C, and Jabalpur 39.9°C.

“Currently, four cyclonic circulations and one turf system are active over Madhya Pradesh,” said Dr. Arun Sharma, Senior Meteorologist. “These systems are driving the changing weather patterns. From May 20 onward, we expect more intense storm and rain activity across the state.”

Looking at weather patterns in recent years, May has consistently been the hottest month in Madhya Pradesh. In some cities, temperatures have previously touched 47-48°C. This year, the first half of May brought strong storms, rain, and hail. The second half is expected to bring a spike in heat.

The districts likely to face extreme heat include Gwalior, Chhatarpur, Narsinghpur, Niwari, Maihar, Bhind, Datia, Khargone, Barwani, Khandwa, Morena, Rajgarh, Raisen, Shajapur, Sheopur, Shivpuri, and Vidisha. Temperatures in Khajuraho and Naugaon may reach 48°C. In big cities like Bhopal, Indore, Jabalpur, and Ujjain, the mercury could rise to around 44-45°C. Gwalior is expected to be the hottest, possibly touching 46-47°C.

April had already shown signs of extreme conditions. The first week brought unusually high temperatures due to western winds. The second week saw widespread storms, rain, and hail across 80% of the state. The third week was marked by rising temperatures and heatwaves in several areas. Since April 25, storms and rainhave continued due to ongoing weather systems.

The Meteorological Department warns that rising heat will dominate the last part of May. Residents are advised to stay alert and take precautions against the extreme weather conditions.

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