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India Swelters: Heatwave Grips Nation as Monsoon Nears
24 May
Summary
- Heatwave conditions expected across northwest and peninsular India.
- Southwest monsoon advances, expected to reach Kerala on May 26.
- Extreme heat poses high health risks, particularly for vulnerable groups.
As of May 24, 2026, India is grappling with intense heatwave conditions affecting large parts of the country. Northwest India and east peninsular India are particularly impacted, with heatwave alerts extending until May 29. Maximum temperatures have frequently exceeded 45°C, with Brahmpuri recording a high of 47.2°C. Severe heatwave conditions are warned for Uttar Pradesh, Madhya Pradesh, and Vidarbha.
In parallel, the southwest monsoon has made progress, advancing into parts of the Arabian Sea and Bay of Bengal. The India Meteorological Department (IMD) forecasts its arrival in Kerala around May 26, with a potential deviation of four days, marking an early onset compared to the typical June 1 date.
IMD has issued red and orange category warnings, signifying a very high likelihood of heat illness and heat stroke. Vulnerable populations, including the elderly and infants, are at significant risk. Public health advisories emphasize avoiding heat exposure and staying hydrated. Forecasts also indicate a greater than 90% chance of El Nino developing, which typically correlates with harsher summers and weaker monsoons in India.
