MP heatwave pushes 16 cities beyond 44°C:Rain and thunderstorms likely across most districts for next three consecutive days

Madhya Pradesh continued to reel under intense heat on Tuesday, with temperatures crossing 44°C in 16 cities across the state. Khajuraho and Nowgong in Chhatarpur district remained the hottest locations, while the India Meteorological Department (IMD) has predicted widespread rain and thunderstorm activity from May 28 onwards, signaling the onset of pre-monsoon weather conditions. According to the IMD’s Bhopal center, the first two days of the “Nautapa” period — traditionally considered the hottest phase of summer — witnessed unexpected spells of rain and thunderstorms in several regions. The department now expects rain activity to continue across most parts of the state for three consecutive days beginning Wednesday. Officials also indicated that the southwest monsoon may enter Madhya Pradesh between June 10 and 16. Khajuraho and Nowgong remain hottest On Tuesday, Khajuraho recorded the highest temperature in the state at 46.4°C, followed by Nowgong at 45.6°C. Other major temperature readings included: Among the state’s five major cities, Gwalior remained the hottest at 44.1°C. Bhopal recorded 43.2°C, Jabalpur 43.9°C, Ujjain 42°C, and Indore 41.2°C. Heatwave alerts across several districts The IMD has issued heatwave warnings across multiple districts for Wednesday. Red alert for severe heatwave The districts under red alert include: Night temperatures are also expected to remain unusually high in Tikamgarh. Orange alert for intense heatwave An orange alert has been issued for 19 districts, including: Yellow alert for heatwave A yellow alert has been sounded in 22 districts, including: Extreme heat conditions Eight districts — Indore, Dhar, Barwani, Jhabua, Alirajpur, Harda, Narmadapuram and Betul — are expected to experience extremely hot conditions. Rain and Thunderstorm activity likely after May 28 The Meteorological Department said the heatwave is expected to peak by May 28. From May 29 onward, several parts of the state are likely to witness thunderstorms, gusty winds and rainfall. Meteorologist HS Pandey advised residents to avoid stepping outdoors between 12 pm and 3 pm unless absolutely necessary. He also urged people to stay hydrated, wear light-colored cotton clothes, and take special care of children and elderly family members. Bhopal frequently records rain during Nautapa Historical weather data shows that Bhopal has experienced rainfall during the Nautapa period seven times in the last 14 years, with light drizzles recorded on two other occasions. The city saw some of its hottest summers in 2018 and 2019, when average temperatures crossed 43°C. This year too, rain activity has already begun during Nautapa.