Weather Warning – Severe Heatwave in Delhi-Punjab-UP, Heavy Rain in 15 States, Full State-Wise Forecast

Weather Today, May 21, 2026: According to the India Meteorological Department (IMD), the spell of severe heat is expected to persist in several states across the country today. The IMD has issued an alert regarding heatwave conditions for multiple states. Warnings regarding heatwaves have been specifically issued for Northwest, Central, and East India. Conversely, the Meteorological Department forecasts light to moderate rainfall in Jammu and Kashmir between May 20 and May 22.

Additionally, light to moderate rainfall is predicted for Himachal Pradesh over the next 48 hours. Meanwhile, an alert for heavy rainfall has been issued for Northeast India and the Andaman and Nicobar Islands. So, let’s find out exactly where the skies are set to open up, and where the intense fury of the heatwave will be felt most acutely.

States Expected to Face Severe Heat
The Meteorological Department has issued an alert for a severe heatwave today—May 21—covering Punjab, Haryana, Chandigarh, and Delhi. Furthermore, in Uttar Pradesh, the spell of intense sunshine and severe heat is expected to continue until May 26. Heatwave conditions are also expected to persist in Chhattisgarh, Rajasthan, Bihar, Telangana, and Odisha.

Weather in Jharkhand
The impact of severe heat is currently being felt across Jharkhand. Temperatures in several parts of the state have soared to 44 degrees Celsius. The Meteorological Department has issued a ‘Yellow Alert’ for several districts, cautioning residents to remain vigilant.

Rainfall Expected in Northeastern States
The spell of rainfall continues across Northeast India. Arunachal Pradesh and Nagaland have been experiencing continuous rainfall for quite some time now. According to the IMD’s report, there remains a likelihood of rain in these northeastern states on Thursday as well. During this period, there is also a possibility of lightning strikes accompanied by strong winds. An alert for heavy rainfall has been issued for Assam and Meghalaya between May 21 and May 25. Meanwhile, rain is likely to occur at several places across Arunachal Pradesh, Nagaland, Manipur, Mizoram, and Tripura between May 22 and May 25.

Weather in Bihar
The Meteorological Department has issued an alert for isolated light to moderate rainfall in Bihar between May 21 and May 25. During this time, thunderstorms and strong winds gusting at speeds of 40 to 50 kilometres per hour may also occur.

Will it Rain in West Bengal and Sikkim?
Rainfall may be witnessed in several areas of Sub-Himalayan West Bengal and Sikkim from May 21 to May 23. Heavy rainfall is forecast for the period between May 21 and May 25.

Weather in South India
According to the Meteorological Department, light to moderate rainfall, accompanied by thunderstorms and strong winds, is likely in parts of Tamil Nadu, Puducherry, Kerala, Lakshadweep, and Karnataka from May 21 to May 24. Meanwhile, an alert for heavy rainfall has been issued for the Andaman and Nicobar Islands for this week.