Intense heat grips Madhya Pradesh in late March

Madhya Pradesh is experiencing intense heat as March ends, continuing a decade-long trend of rising temperatures. The recent cessation of rain, hail, and storms has significantly increased temperatures throughout the state. On Sunday, Ratlam recorded the highest temperature at 39°C, while Gwalior, Indore, and Ujjain districts were among the hottest.

According to the Meteorological Department, a Western Disturbance is active over the Himalayas, but its impact on Madhya Pradesh is weak. The heatwave is expected to persist. Temperatures rose across the state, with Narmadapuram at 38.8°C, Dhar 37.4°C, Khargone 37°C, and Guna-Betul 36.5°C. Other cities, including Bhopal (35.1°C), Indore (35.4°C), Jabalpur (34.9°C), and Gwalior (34.7°C), reported rising temperatures. The heat was felt from early morning in Bhopal and other cities.

While temperatures soared, Amarkantak saw heavy rainfall on Saturday night, receiving over four inches. Rewa also recorded rainfall, while Bhind and Anuppur witnessed strong storms. Thunder and lightning were reported in Satna, Rewa, Anuppur, and Bhind.

The weather department predicts clear skies and rising temperatures for the next two days. On March 24, bright sunshine is expected with no rainfall alerts. By March 25, temperatures may increase by 2-3°C. The heat is expected to intensify further from March 27 to March 31, with some areas likely experiencing heatwave conditions. In several cities, temperatures may exceed 40°C.

A heatwave is declared when the temperature exceeds 40°C or is 4.6°C above normal. As April and May approach, the state is expected to endure prolonged heatwaves, with the Meteorological Department predicting 15-20 days of extreme heat between March and May. Hot winds may persist for 30-35 days.

Historical temperature data from five major Madhya Pradesh cities highlight this warming trend. In Bhopal, March has been a mix of intense heat and occasional rain. The highest recent temperature was 41°C on March 30, 2021. In Indore, the highest March temperature was 41.1°C on March 28, 1892.

Gwalior has fluctuating conditions, with a record high of 41.8°C on March 31, 2022. Jabalpur has warm days and cooler nights, with temperatures from 36°C to 40°C. The highest March temperature was 41.2°C on March 31, 2017. Ujjain is one of the hottest cities in March, with a record temperature of 42.5°C on March 22, 2010.

As Madhya Pradesh braces for rising temperatures, the weather department warns of harsher conditions ahead, urging residents to take precautions against the heat.

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