Madhya Pradesh is reeling under intense heatwave conditions, with several districts recording significantly above-normal temperatures, while the India Meteorological Department (IMD) has also warned of thunderstorms, lightning, and gusty winds in parts of the state in the coming days. The combination of extreme heat and unstable weather has raised concerns over public safety and agricultural losses.

According to the IMD’s Meteorological Centre in Bhopal, the highest maximum temperature in the state was recorded at 44.3°C in Nowgong (Chhatarpur district), while the lowest minimum temperature stood at 19.4°C in Mandsaur. Heatwave conditions were reported in Ratlam, Chhindwara, Mandla, Malanjkhand, and Nowgong, while several areas, including Bhopal, experienced unusually warm nights.

Tragically, one farmer lost his life after being struck by lightning in Betul district’s Bhimpur block on Sunday evening. Police said the incident occurred near Ghodida village under Titvi gram panchayat while the farmer, identified as Kunwarsingh, was working in his field. A sudden change in weather brought thunderstorms, heavy lightning, and rain, during which he was struck.

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Over the past 24 hours, isolated rainfall was recorded in parts of the Indore division, while most of the state remained dry. Temperature deviations were also significant, with several divisions including Bhopal, Ujjain, Chambal, Gwalior, Rewa, Jabalpur, Shahdol, and Sagar recording maximum temperatures well above seasonal averages by up to nearly 4°C. Minimum temperatures too rose across multiple regions, adding to overall discomfort.

The IMD has forecast thunderstorms accompanied by lightning, gusty winds reaching 40–50 kmph, and possible hail in districts including Bhopal, Vidisha, Raisen, Sehore, Narmadapuram, Betul, Harda, Khandwa, Indore, and Jabalpur. Authorities have advised farmers to take precautions to protect standing crops, fruits, and vegetables from potential damage due to adverse weather conditions.

Residents have been urged to stay indoors during thunderstorms, avoid taking shelter under trees, and unplug electrical appliances during lightning activity to reduce risks. Officials have also cautioned vulnerable groups, including children, the elderly, and livestock owners, to take additional care amid the continuing heatwave. Looking ahead, the IMD expects no major change in maximum temperatures over the next two days, followed by a possible rise of 2–3°C. A western disturbance is also likely to impact the western Himalayan region from April 23, which may influence broader weather patterns across northern India.

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