Dangerous heat wave may grip India into May

By Eric Leister, AccuWeather senior meteorologist

April 17, 2018, 8:28:24 AM EDT

Temperatures will soar across much of India this week as cooling thunderstorms disappear.

The likelihood of a lengthy and dangerous heat wave is increasing across much of India with any relief being short-lived and limited to far northern areas.

This resurgence of heat will once again put millions of residents at risk for heat-related illnesses.

Temperatures soared to 41 C (106 F) across the National Capital Region (NCR) on Tuesday and will remain dangerously high much of this week.

Highs of 39-42 C (102-108 F) will be common from the NCR to Patna and Kolkata through at least Friday.

Temperatures will climb closer to 43 C (110 F) in Ahmedabad as well as locations from Telangana to interior West Bengal.

Temperatures may begin to dip around the NCR on Saturday as a storm approaches far northern India. Dangerous heat will continue farther south and east into this weekend.

Any relief will be minor and short-lived as temperatures will still peak near 37 C (98 F).

Despite dodging the highest temperatures, high humidity will contribute to dangerously high AccuWeather RealFeel® Temperatures in Mumbai and other locations near the coast.

Residents will once again have to take the necessary precautions to avoid heat exhaustion and heatstroke.

Drink plenty of water, wear light clothing and avoid strenuous activities during the midday and afternoon (the hottest times of the day). Be sure that the elderly, children and homeless are following these precautions while ensuring animals have proper shelter.

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No relief will come at night as temperatures will drop only to 24-28 C (76-82 F). Buildings without air conditioning will not be able to cool.

In addition to the heat, residents will have to contend with the poor air quality, which is a common problem this time of year.

With little or no relief expected across the country this weekend, a strengthening area of high pressure will cause temperatures to soar even higher next week, which will prolong the threat of dangerous heat.

Looking ahead to May, AccuWeather Senior Meteorologist Jason Nicholls anticipates that "northwestern India will probably still be a little hotter than normal but likely not as hot as last May."

Average high temperatures range from 38-40 C (lower 100s F) in the NCR in May.