IMD State-Wise Weather Update: Severe Heatwave in Delhi, Punjab and UP; Heavy Rain Expected Across 15 States
Today's Weather, May 21, 2026: A fresh Weather Warning has been issued across India as the country witnesses two contrasting weather conditions at the same time. While severe heatwave conditions are tightening their grip over Delhi, Punjab, Haryana and Uttar Pradesh, several northeastern and southern states are preparing for heavy rainfall, thunderstorms and strong winds. According to the India Meteorological Department (IMD), intense heat is likely to continue in parts of North, Central and East India, whereas many regions in the Northeast and South may experience widespread rain activity over the next few days.
Severe Heatwave Alert for Delhi, Punjab, Haryana and UP
The IMD has warned of extremely hot weather conditions in several northern states on May 21. Areas expected to face severe heatwave conditions include:
The scorching temperatures and dry winds are likely to continue for the next few days. In Uttar Pradesh, the heatwave spell may persist until May 26, making daytime conditions extremely uncomfortable.
Apart from these regions, hot weather conditions are also expected in:
Residents have been advised to avoid stepping out during peak afternoon hours and stay hydrated.
Jharkhand Reels Under Rising Temperatures
Jharkhand is also witnessing intense summer conditions, with temperatures touching nearly 44 degrees Celsius in several districts. The Meteorological Department has issued a Yellow Alert in parts of the state, warning people to remain cautious amid rising temperatures and heat-related health risks.
Heavy Rainfall Alert in Northeast India
While northern India battles extreme heat, the northeastern states continue to receive steady rainfall. States including Arunachal Pradesh and Nagaland have already been witnessing continuous showers, and the wet spell is expected to continue.
The IMD has predicted:
People living in vulnerable areas have been advised to remain alert due to the possibility of waterlogging and storm-related disruptions.
Bihar Likely to Witness Rain and Thunderstorms
Bihar may receive isolated light to moderate rainfall between May 21 and May 25. Weather officials have also warned of thunderstorms and gusty winds reaching speeds of 40 to 50 kmph in some districts.
The sudden weather change could bring temporary relief from the heat, but residents are advised to stay cautious during thunderstorm activity.
Rain Forecast for West Bengal and Sikkim
Sub-Himalayan regions of West Bengal and Sikkim are also expected to witness significant rainfall activity over the coming days.
According to forecasts:
Cloudy skies and intermittent rain are expected to bring down temperatures in these areas.
South India Braces for Rain and Thunderstorms
Several southern states are likely to witness light to moderate rainfall along with thunderstorms and gusty winds over the next few days.
The affected regions include:
The IMD has forecast rain activity in these states from May 21 to May 24. Meanwhile, the Andaman and Nicobar Islands are under a heavy rainfall alert this week.
IMD Advises Caution Amid Extreme Weather Conditions
With India facing both severe heatwave conditions and widespread rainfall simultaneously, the IMD has urged people to stay updated with local weather advisories.
Safety Tips During Heatwave
Safety Tips During Heavy Rain and Thunderstorms
As weather patterns remain unpredictable, several states are expected to continue witnessing extreme conditions over the coming days.
Severe Heatwave Alert for Delhi, Punjab, Haryana and UP
The IMD has warned of extremely hot weather conditions in several northern states on May 21. Areas expected to face severe heatwave conditions include:
- Delhi
- Punjab
- Haryana
- Chandigarh
- Uttar Pradesh
The scorching temperatures and dry winds are likely to continue for the next few days. In Uttar Pradesh, the heatwave spell may persist until May 26, making daytime conditions extremely uncomfortable.
Apart from these regions, hot weather conditions are also expected in:
- Rajasthan
- Chhattisgarh
- Bihar
- Telangana
- Odisha
Residents have been advised to avoid stepping out during peak afternoon hours and stay hydrated.
Jharkhand Reels Under Rising Temperatures
Jharkhand is also witnessing intense summer conditions, with temperatures touching nearly 44 degrees Celsius in several districts. The Meteorological Department has issued a Yellow Alert in parts of the state, warning people to remain cautious amid rising temperatures and heat-related health risks.
Heavy Rainfall Alert in Northeast India
While northern India battles extreme heat, the northeastern states continue to receive steady rainfall. States including Arunachal Pradesh and Nagaland have already been witnessing continuous showers, and the wet spell is expected to continue.
The IMD has predicted:
- Heavy rainfall in Assam and Meghalaya from May 21 to May 25
- Rainfall activity in Arunachal Pradesh, Nagaland, Manipur, Mizoram and Tripura between May 22 and May 25
- Thunderstorms, lightning and strong winds in several northeastern districts
People living in vulnerable areas have been advised to remain alert due to the possibility of waterlogging and storm-related disruptions.
Bihar Likely to Witness Rain and Thunderstorms
Bihar may receive isolated light to moderate rainfall between May 21 and May 25. Weather officials have also warned of thunderstorms and gusty winds reaching speeds of 40 to 50 kmph in some districts.
The sudden weather change could bring temporary relief from the heat, but residents are advised to stay cautious during thunderstorm activity.
Rain Forecast for West Bengal and Sikkim
Sub-Himalayan regions of West Bengal and Sikkim are also expected to witness significant rainfall activity over the coming days.
According to forecasts:
- Rainfall is likely from May 21 to May 23
- Heavy showers may continue until May 25 in isolated regions
Cloudy skies and intermittent rain are expected to bring down temperatures in these areas.
South India Braces for Rain and Thunderstorms
Several southern states are likely to witness light to moderate rainfall along with thunderstorms and gusty winds over the next few days.
The affected regions include:
- Tamil Nadu
- Puducherry
- Kerala
- Karnataka
- Lakshadweep
The IMD has forecast rain activity in these states from May 21 to May 24. Meanwhile, the Andaman and Nicobar Islands are under a heavy rainfall alert this week.
IMD Advises Caution Amid Extreme Weather Conditions
With India facing both severe heatwave conditions and widespread rainfall simultaneously, the IMD has urged people to stay updated with local weather advisories.
Safety Tips During Heatwave
- Drink plenty of water
- Avoid direct sunlight during afternoon hours
- Wear light cotton clothes
- Avoid strenuous outdoor activities
Safety Tips During Heavy Rain and Thunderstorms
- Stay indoors during lightning activity
- Avoid waterlogged areas
- Secure loose outdoor objects
- Follow local administration advisories
As weather patterns remain unpredictable, several states are expected to continue witnessing extreme conditions over the coming days.