IMD Warns Of Continued Heat Wave As Vidarbha Temperatures Near 47°C

Akola in Maharashtra recorded the highest temperature in the country at 46.9°C , as large parts of the Vidarbha region continued to reel under a severe heat wave , the India Meteorological Department (IMD) said on Monday.

According to the IMD’s Regional Meteorological Centre in Nagpur, Amravati followed closely at 46.8°C , while Wardha recorded 46.4°C and Yavatmal touched 46°C . Nagpur and Chandrapur also experienced extreme conditions, logging 45.4°C and 45°C , respectively.

Several districts, including Akola, Amravati, Wardha, Yavatmal, Chandrapur and Nagpur , reported heat wave conditions , with temperatures significantly above normal levels.

Explaining the weather pattern, RMC scientist Dr Praveen Kumar said the persistent heat is due to an anticyclonic circulation over Maharashtra and adjoining areas, combined with hot and dry northwesterly winds sweeping across the region. He added that weak western disturbances and the absence of moisture incursion or active weather systems have further intensified the heat.

The IMD has warned that heat wave conditions are likely to persist till Tuesday , with maximum temperatures expected to range between 45°C and 46°C , and touch 47°C at isolated locations .

An ‘orange’ alert (be prepared) has been issued for Akola, Amravati and Wardha, while a ‘yellow’ alert (be aware) is in place for Nagpur, Chandrapur and Yavatmal.

Relief, however, may be on the horizon. The IMD has indicated a possible drop in temperatures by 2-3°C after Tuesday , along with chances of rainfall and gusty winds in the coming days.

The IMD classifies weather warnings using a colour-coded system: green (no warning), yellow (be aware), orange (be prepared), and red (take action).