Daijiworld Media Network - Bhopal

Bhopal, May 26: Madhya Pradesh continued to experience extreme heatwave conditions on Tuesday as the annual “Nautapa” period — considered the hottest nine days of summer — began across the state, driving temperatures above 45 degrees Celsius in several districts.

The India Meteorological Department (IMD) issued widespread heatwave alerts, warning that intense heat conditions are likely to continue over the next few days.

According to the Meteorological Centre in Bhopal, temperatures in eastern Madhya Pradesh touched between 44°C and 46°C on May 25, while western regions recorded highs between 42°C and 44°C.

Khajuraho emerged as the hottest location in the state with a maximum temperature of 47.2°C.

Official heatwave conditions were reported in Khajuraho, Datia, Mandla, Tikamgarh, Malajkhand and Nowgaon. Night temperatures also remained unusually high in cities such as Gwalior, Tikamgarh and Datia, offering little relief to residents.

For Tuesday, the weather department forecast daytime temperatures ranging between 43°C and 45°C across most districts, significantly above seasonal averages.

A total of 37 districts have been placed under heatwave alert, including Bhopal, Rewa, Satna, Panna, Chhatarpur, Ujjain, Gwalior, Morena, Jabalpur, Sagar, Mandla and Balaghat.

The onset of Nautapa has further intensified the weather situation, severely affecting normal life in many parts of the state.

However, a few districts witnessed brief weather changes, with light rain, thunderstorms and gusty winds bringing temporary relief. Thunderstorm activity was reported in more than 15 districts, including Bhopal, Umaria and Damoh.

The strongest wind speeds were recorded in Sehore and Shahdol at around 50 kmph, while districts such as Sagar and Khandwa also experienced strong gusts.

The heatwave impact has extended into neighbouring Chhattisgarh, where cities including Raipur are also witnessing soaring temperatures and intense hot winds.

Authorities in both states have advised people to avoid outdoor activities during peak afternoon hours between noon and 4 p.m.
Health officials have issued advisories urging citizens to remain hydrated, wear light cotton clothing, use caps or umbrellas outdoors and take frequent breaks in cool or shaded places.

Residents have also been encouraged to stay alert against seasonal diseases such as dengue and malaria, which can increase during sudden weather fluctuations.

The prolonged heat has disrupted daily routines, particularly affecting outdoor labourers, farmers and commuters. Several schools and colleges in affected districts have revised timings to minimise exposure to the extreme heat.

With temperatures expected to remain high over the coming days, officials have appealed to the public — especially children, senior citizens and people with existing health conditions — to take extra precautions and closely follow official weather updates.