The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued a severe two-day red alert for Uttar Pradesh, Madhya Pradesh and the Vidarbha region as extreme heatwave conditions intensify.
The worst-affected areas include Bundelkhand and central Uttar Pradesh, where daytime temperatures have soared well above normal levels, prompting urgent safety warnings.
Uttar Pradesh is experiencing an intense and severe heatwave, with Banda emerging as the hottest location in the country after recording a maximum temperature of 48.2°C.
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— All India Radio News (@airnewsalerts) May 20, 2026
???Orange alert for heatwave to severe heatwave conditions over Delhi, Punjab, Haryana, and Chandigarh today.
????Red alert for warm night conditions over Uttar Pradesh, Madhya Pradesh and Vidarbha during the day.
☀️Heatwave conditions… pic.twitter.com/QpfxnrGFID
Authorities have urged people to take precautions, avoid exposure to direct sunlight during peak hours, and stay hydrated. Special attention has been advised for vulnerable groups, including children, the elderly, and those with pre-existing health conditions.
IMD scientist Akhilesh Shrivastav told ANI, "The regions of Northwest India, along with Central India and the nearby areas, are expected to experience heatwave conditions. These conditions are likely to persist over the coming week — that is, for the next 7 days."
Detailing the state-wise alert zones, he stated, "Heatwave warnings have been issued for Punjab, Haryana, Uttar Pradesh, Madhya Pradesh, Rajasthan, as well as the Vidarbha, Central Maharashtra, and Marathwada regions of Maharashtra."
The IMD has further cautioned that hot and dry winds are expected to continue over the coming days, worsening the already severe conditions across Uttar Pradesh.
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