The onset of sweltering summer conditions has gripped Madhya Pradesh, with temperatures soaring across the state. On Friday, Bhopal experienced a sharp spike as the mercury breached 42°C, marking a significant departure from the previous days of rain and storm activity. The relief brought by recent hailstorms and scattered showers has now given way to oppressive heat, prompting the India Meteorological Department (IMD) to issue the season’s first heat wave alert.
On Saturday, Narmadapuram emerged as the hottest location in the state, recording a searing 42.6°C — the highest temperature of the season so far. Several other cities also reported steep climbs in mercury levels, reinforcing the growing intensity of the heatwave.
According to the IMD’s forecast, heat wave conditions are expected to impact at least 10 districts on April 7 and 8. The alert primarily targets districts in the Ujjain, Gwalior, and Chambal divisions, while severe heat is anticipated in Bhopal, Indore, and the Jabalpur-Sagar belt. Saturday's temperature readings underscored the developing pattern: Bhopal recorded 39°C, Indore 38.8°C, Gwalior 38°C, Ujjain 39.4°C, and Jabalpur 38.5°C. Officials anticipate further escalation on Sunday and beyond.
Divya E Surendran, Senior Scientist at IMD Bhopal, explained that a weakening western disturbance and two cyclonic circulation systems had contributed to sporadic rainfall and cloud cover until Friday. However, as these systems lose strength, the heat is expected to intensify, leading to continued temperature spikes over the next three to four days.
The IMD has pinpointed several districts for potential heat wave conditions. On April 7, Neemuch, Mandsaur, Gwalior, Sheopur, Morena, Bhind, and Datia are forecasted to be impacted. The heat wave’s reach is expected to extend to Shivpuri, Guna, and Ashoknagar by April 8.
While isolated light rainfall occurred in districts like Bhind, Morena, and Gwalior on Friday, most regions endured blazing sunshine and rising temperatures. The abrupt transition from cool, rainy days to intense heat was especially stark in areas that had only recently seen cloud cover and drizzles.
Temperature trends indicate a statewide escalation. Ratlam and Narmadapuram breached the 40°C mark, while Khajuraho registered 39.2°C and Tikamgarh and Guna touched 39°C.
