The heatwave conditions are likely to affect parts of Northwest India and adjoining area during the next three days, but the temperatures are likely to reduce gradually from May 30, Indian Meteorological Department chief Mrutyunjay Mohapatra said on Monday.
"Heatwave to severe heatwave conditions very likely in many parts of Northwest India and adjoining area during next three days. This is likely to reduce gradually from the 30th of May due to western disturbance," Mrutyunjay Mohapatra said.
It also predicted above-normal monsoon for central India this year, with the entire country expected to receive above-average rains in this season.
"The South West Monsoon rainfall over the country as a whole is likely to be 106% of the long-period average with a model error of 4%. Thus, above-normal rainfall is most likely over the country as a whole," Mohapatra said.
Rajasthan and Gujarat saw nine to 12 heat wave days, with temperatures reaching 45-50 degrees Celsius, the IMD said.
"Expect relief from the heat wave in northwest and central parts of the country after three days due to a western disturbance and moisture incursion from the Arabian Sea. There could be some thunderstorm activity in northwest India and rain in the western Himalayan region," Mohapatra said in a virtual press conference.
Delhi, south Haryana, southwest UP and Punjab recorded five-seven heat wave days, with maximum temperatures ranging from 44 degrees Celsius to 48 degrees Celsius, he further said.
The weather agency had earlier issued alerts for Delhi and Rajasthan as temperatures soared to 50 degrees in certain areas.
The IMD, earlier today, forecasted heat-wave to severe heat-wave conditions for Delhi, saying strong surface winds were likely. The maximum temperature, the IMD said, will settle around 46 degrees celsius in the national capital.
Monsoon To Reach Kerala On March 31
IMD Director Mrutyunjay Mohapatra said that though the monsoon reaches near Kerala on June 1, this year the rainy season may arrive on May 31. He added that there are favourable conditions for the monsoon to reach the Southern and northeastern states in the next five days.
"Usually, monsoon reaches near Kerala on June 1... This year, the monsoon may reach Kerala on May 31, ± 4 days. In the next 5 days, there are favourable conditions for the monsoon to reach Kerela and the northeastern states... In North West India, heatwave to severe heatwave conditions are there... There is a forecast that on May 30, a western disturbance will affect North West India... From May 30, the severe heatwave condition will improve," Mrutyunjay Mohapatra said.