Heatwave Scorches Maharashtra as Chandrapur Hits 45.6°C; Isolated Heavy Rain, Thunderstorms Forecast in Parts of India
Maharashtra continues to battle an intense heatwave, especially in the Vidarbha region, where Chandrapur scorched at 45.6°C on April 21, making it the hottest place in India and the fourth hottest in the world, according to a private weather agency. This extreme temperature has triggered a heatwave alert across the region.
Other Vidarbha cities like Brahmapuri (45.0°C), Amravati (44.6°C), Akola (44.1°C), and Nagpur (43.6°C) followed closely, placing six of India’s hottest cities in this region. Chandrapur, known for its wildlife reserves and thermal power hubs, often experiences such extreme April temperatures. Its all-time April high stands at 47.2°C (April 29, 2019).
The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued a heatwave alert for Vidarbha, forecasting temperatures to touch 45°C in Nagpur and Akola on April 22 and 23. Wardha, Chandrapur, and Yavatmal are also likely to continue experiencing oppressive heat.
The scorching heat is expected to persist across the country till at least April 23-24, including most parts of Maharashtra. Relief may begin from April 25 onward when winds from the Arabian Sea are forecast to reach Maharashtra, offering slight respite.
Here are the maximum temperatures recorded in Maharashtra on April 21:
- Chandrapur: 45.6°C
- Brahmapuri: 45.0°C
- Amravati: 44.6°C
- Akola: 44.1°C
- Nagpur: 43.6°C
- Solapur: 43.0°C
- Jeur: 42.5°C
- Parbhani / Dharashiv / Malegaon: 42.2°C
- Jalgaon: 42.0°C
- Beed: 41.7°C
- Nandurbar: 41.8°C
- Udgir: 41.2°C
- Chikalthana: 40.9°C
- Pune: 39.9°C
- Satara: 39.3°C
- Nashik: 38.4°C
- Ahilyanagar: 38.0°C
Upcoming Weather Outlook:
- A light rain spell is likely on April 27 in southern, southeastern, and eastern India, including Vidarbha and adjacent regions.
- While these showers may offer temporary relief, temperatures in Vidarbha and much of central India are expected to remain above normal until then.
- A cyclonic circulation is developing, and isolated heavy rain with thunderstorms is expected across 17 states, particularly in North and East India.
The IMD has advised residents to avoid prolonged sun exposure, stay hydrated, and follow local health advisories. With the current spell showing no major signs of abating immediately, citizens are urged to stay vigilant.
