India Heatwave Crisis Deepens: No Relief for Next 3 Days as Temperatures Cross 47°C in 22 Cities
- By Thetripurapost Desk, New Delhi
- May 22, 2026
- 320
India is witnessing one of the harshest summer spells of the year, with no immediate relief expected over the next three days. According to weather monitoring platform AQI Weather, the world’s 22 hottest cities recorded temperatures above 47°C at 3 PM on Friday — all of them located in India.
Among the worst-affected locations, Bolangir in Odisha and Sasaram in Bihar emerged as the hottest cities, while Uttar Pradesh alone accounted for 13 of the top 22 hottest places.
The latest update from the India Meteorological Department and India Meteorological Department (IMD) indicates that severe heatwave conditions are likely to continue across large parts of North, Central, and Western India.
IMD Reports Extremely Hot Nights Across India
The IMD stated that night temperatures remained above 30°C in at least 35 cities on Thursday, increasing the risk of heat-related illnesses.
High nighttime temperatures are especially dangerous because they prevent the human body from cooling naturally, leading to:
- Heat exhaustion
- Dehydration
- Fatigue
- Increased heatstroke risk
Bihar Schools Closed Due to Severe Heatwave
In view of the extreme weather conditions, authorities in Patna and Gaya have ordered the closure of schools for students up to Class 5 from May 22 to May 26.
Meanwhile, lightning strikes during thunderstorms claimed three lives in Madhepura and Saharsa districts on Thursday, highlighting the dual threat of extreme heat and unstable weather conditions.
For lightning safety information, visit the National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA).
Punjab Revises School and Office Timings
To minimize exposure to dangerous afternoon temperatures, the Punjab government has revised timings for schools and government offices.
New Timings:
- Opening Time: 7:30 AM
- Closing Time: 1:30 PM
Officials said the move is intended to protect students, teachers, and government employees from peak daytime heat.
Why Water Scarcity Increases During Summer
Summer months lead to a sharp increase in water demand due to:
- Higher drinking water consumption
- Frequent bathing and cooling needs
- Cooking and cleaning requirements
- Agricultural irrigation
- Rapid evaporation of water sources
According to the Ministry of Jal Shakti, conserving water during heatwaves is crucial for sustainable water management.
Simple Water Storage Tips During Heatwaves
1. Use Food-Grade Containers
Store water in clean, food-safe containers with tightly sealed lids.
2. Keep Water Away from Sunlight
Direct sunlight can encourage bacterial growth and raise water temperature.
3. Maintain Emergency Water Reserves
Experts recommend storing enough drinking water for at least 3–5 days during extreme summer conditions.
4. Replace Stored Water Regularly
Refresh stored drinking water every few days to maintain safety and quality.
5. Prevent Water Wastage
Repair leaking taps and adopt water-saving habits at home.
For water conservation tips, check the Jal Jeevan Mission Official Portal.
India Weather Forecast for May 23
Severe Heatwave Alert Issued For:
- Rajasthan
- Chhattisgarh
- Haryana
- Delhi
- Madhya Pradesh
- Punjab
- Telangana
- Uttar Pradesh
- Maharashtra
Rajasthan is likely to face the most severe heatwave conditions, including extremely hot nights.
Heavy Rainfall Expected In:
- Assam
- Meghalaya
- Kerala
- Nagaland
- Manipur
- Mizoram
- Tripura
- Karnataka
- Tamil Nadu
India Weather Forecast for May 24
Heatwave Likely To Continue In:
- Bihar
- Delhi
- Haryana
- Uttar Pradesh
- Maharashtra
- Madhya Pradesh
- Chhattisgarh
- Punjab
- Rajasthan
- Telangana
Heavy Rain and Thunderstorm Warnings
Heavy rainfall is likely in:
- Kerala
- Nagaland
- Manipur
- Mizoram
- Tripura
- Karnataka
- Tamil Nadu
Thunderstorms with wind speeds of 50–60 kmph may affect:
- Andhra Pradesh
- Karnataka
- Jharkhand
Heatwave Safety Tips Everyone Should Follow
Stay Hydrated
Drink water frequently even if you do not feel thirsty.
Avoid Peak Afternoon Heat
Limit outdoor activity between 12 PM and 4 PM.
Wear Light Cotton Clothing
Loose and breathable clothes help regulate body temperature.
Use Protective Gear Outdoors
Carry umbrellas, caps, or scarves while stepping outside.
Watch for Heatstroke Symptoms
Seek immediate medical attention if symptoms like dizziness, nausea, headache, or fainting occur.