Lucknow, May 13, 2025 — After brief relief from rains and hailstorms, Uttar Pradesh is once again under intense heatwave conditions. The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued a heatwave alert for 19 districts across the state on Tuesday, with temperatures expected to soar to 46°C later this week.
According to recent data, Banda recorded the highest temperature in the state at 43.3°C, while Meerut reported the lowest minimum temperature at 23.8°C.
🔥 Heatwave to Intensify, Mercury Set to Rise by 5–6°C
IMD scientist Atul Kumar Singh warned that the temperature across eastern UP will rise significantly in the coming days. “A 5 to 6-degree increase is expected this week, pushing the maximum temperature up to 46°C in some districts,” he said.
☁️ Light Showers Likely in Terai from May 16
The weather department has forecast light rainfall in the Terai belt of the state between May 16 and May 19 due to cyclonic circulation activity. While the majority of the state will reel under heatwave conditions, the Terai region could see scattered rain and gusty winds, offering temporary respite from the scorching heat.
🏞️ Varanasi Ghats Deserted Amid Scorching Heat
In Varanasi, intense heat and blazing sunshine forced locals and tourists to stay indoors. The usually bustling ghats were deserted by 10 AM as temperatures soared rapidly. Many people turned to the Ganga River for relief, taking dips to cool off, while local boatmen and priests expressed disappointment over the declining footfall.
⛈️ Monsoon May Arrive in UP by June 20
While the southwest monsoon is expected to hit Kerala by May 27, its arrival in Uttar Pradesh is likely around June 20, according to IMD projections. The normal date of arrival for UP is June 18.
However, historical data suggests variability in monsoon arrival. For instance, in 2024, the monsoon entered Kerala two days early on May 30 but took 28 more days to reach UP. On the other hand, 2021 saw the monsoon enter Kerala on June 3 and reach UP 15 days later.
🌧️ Higher-than-Average Rainfall Forecast This Monsoon
Earth Sciences Secretary M. Ravichandran has stated that India is expected to receive above-normal rainfall during the June to September monsoon season. Supporting this, BHU meteorologist Manoj Srivastava said UP could witness 15–20% more rainfall than the average.
UP normally receives around 947 mm of rainfall during the monsoon season. If the predictions hold, this year could bring significant improvement in water levels and agricultural outcomes across the state.
✅ Classification of Rainfall (IMD Guidelines)
-
96% – 104%: Normal
-
90% – 95%: Below Normal
-
<90%: Deficient
-
104% – 110%: Above Normal
-
>110%: Excess
🚨 Stay Safe Amidst Rising Heat
Authorities are advising residents, especially children and the elderly, to stay hydrated, avoid stepping out in the afternoon, and take precautionary measures to combat the heatwave. The next few days will be critical as temperatures continue to climb across the state.
Bhupendra Singh Chundawat is a seasoned technology journalist with over 22 years of experience in the media industry. He specializes in covering the global technology landscape, with a deep focus on manufacturing trends and the geopolitical impact on tech companies. Currently serving as the Editor at Udaipur Kiran, his insights are shaped by decades of hands-on reporting and editorial leadership in the fast-evolving world of technology.