The sky will scorch in the north, clouds will pour in the south; what is the El Niño effect? (AI-Image)
The sky will scorch in the north, clouds will pour in the south; what is the El Niño effect? (AI-Image)

Weather across different parts of the country has presented two completely different pictures. On one side, northwest India is gripped by intense heat and heatwaves, while on the other, heavy rain, storms, and thunderstorms have begun in southern and northeastern states. The weather department says the monsoon is gradually advancing northward, causing this major difference in weather patterns.

The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued a heatwave alert for western parts of Rajasthan, Uttar Pradesh, west and east Madhya Pradesh, Vidarbha, Punjab, Haryana, Delhi, and Chhattisgarh. In these areas, strong sunlight and hot winds during the day could increase people’s discomfort. In Delhi, temperatures are expected to reach between 39 and 42 degrees Celsius. The sky will mostly remain clear, with very low chances of rain. The weather department has advised people to avoid going out during the afternoon, drink plenty of water, and protect themselves from the sun.

Which states will experience heavy rainfall?

While northern India is reeling from heat, the weather pattern in southern and northeastern India will be completely different. According to the IMD, heavy to very heavy rainfall may occur in Arunachal Pradesh, Assam, Meghalaya, sub-Himalayan West Bengal, Sikkim, the Andaman and Nicobar Islands, Tamil Nadu, Kerala, and parts of Karnataka. These areas are also likely to experience thunderstorms with strong winds, which could reach speeds of 40 to 50 kilometers per hour. Especially in the hilly regions of the northeast, there is a risk of flash floods and landslides, so people have been advised to stay alert.

What is the El Niño effect?

El Niño is a natural climate phenomenon that forms in the Pacific Ocean, and its impact is not limited to the sea but affects weather across the entire world. When seawater in the central and eastern parts of the Pacific Ocean becomes warmer than normal, El Niño conditions arise. Along with this, wind patterns also change, disrupting the global weather balance. Due to El Niño, the weather cycle becomes erratic in different parts of the world. Many countries face conditions like heavy rain and floods, while some regions experience severe droughts. The rise in temperature and unusual weather behavior also have a major impact on agriculture, water resources, and daily life.

How important is the El Niño effect for India?

El Niño is considered very significant for India as well, because it is directly linked to the monsoon. According to weather scientists, since 1980, in about 70 percent of El Niño years, the monsoon in India has been weaker than normal. Weak rainfall led to drought-like conditions in many states and also affected agricultural production. This is why the weather department and scientists constantly monitor every El Niño activity in India.

What will the weather be like in major cities?

Mumbai will continue to experience hot and humid weather. Temperatures here could range between 32 and 35 degrees Celsius, with light rain possible in some places.
Bengaluru will see cloudy skies, with thunderstorms and rain likely. Chennai will remain hot and humid, where temperatures could reach 36 degrees Celsius. Kolkata and Hyderabad will also have hot weather, but with clouds and chances of thunder and light rain in some areas.

When will the monsoon reach India?

The southwest monsoon has arrived in parts of the southeast Arabian Sea, the Bay of Bengal, the Andaman Sea, and the Nicobar Islands. The weather department estimates that the monsoon may reach Kerala around May 26, though there is a possibility of a four-day variation. Until then, northern India is expected to continue facing intense heat, while pre-monsoon rains in southern and northeastern India will continue to provide relief to people.

Rajasthan

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Rajasthan

Rajasthan is a northwestern Indian state known for its vibrant culture, majestic forts, and vast Thar Desert. Its history is dominated by the Rajput warrior clans, who built powerful kingdoms and resisted Mughal rule, leaving a legacy of opulent palaces and battle-scarred fortresses. Today, it is a major tourist destination, with cities like Jaipur, Udaipur, and Jodhpur preserving this rich royal heritage.

Uttar Pradesh

Uttar Pradesh is a culturally and historically rich state in northern India, often considered the heartland of Hindu mythology and the birthplace of major religions. It is home to the iconic Taj Mahal in Agra, the sacred city of Varanasi on the Ganges, and the ancient city of Ayodhya, believed to be the birthplace of Lord Rama. The region has been a center of power for empires such as the Mauryas, Guptas, and Mughals, and played a pivotal role in India’s struggle for independence.

Madhya Pradesh

Madhya Pradesh, located in central India, is a culturally rich state known for its ancient history and architectural marvels. It was home to several powerful dynasties, including the Mauryas, Guptas, and Mughals, and features UNESCO World Heritage sites like the Khajuraho temples and Sanchi Stupa. Today, it is celebrated for its vibrant tribal culture, national parks, and historical landmarks that reflect its diverse heritage.

Delhi

Delhi, the capital of India, is a historic city that has been continuously inhabited for over two millennia, serving as the seat of power for numerous empires, including the Mughals and the British Raj. Its rich history is reflected in iconic landmarks such as the Red Fort, Qutub Minar, and Humayun’s Tomb, alongside bustling markets and modern infrastructure. Today, Delhi is a vibrant blend of ancient traditions and contemporary culture, offering a unique glimpse into India’s past and present.

Andaman and Nicobar Islands

The Andaman and Nicobar Islands are a union territory of India located in the Bay of Bengal, known for their stunning tropical beaches, coral reefs, and dense rainforests. Historically, the islands were used by the British as a penal colony, most famously at Cellular Jail in Port Blair, where Indian freedom fighters were imprisoned. Today, they are home to indigenous tribes and popular tourist destinations like Havelock Island and Radhanagar Beach.

Kerala

Kerala, located on the southwestern coast of India, is a state known for its lush tropical landscapes, backwaters, and rich cultural heritage. Historically, it was a major center for the spice trade, attracting ancient traders from Greece, Rome, and the Middle East, and later European colonial powers. Today, it is renowned for its high literacy rate, unique art forms like Kathakali, and Ayurvedic traditions.

Pacific Ocean

The Pacific Ocean is the largest and deepest ocean on Earth, covering more than 60 million square miles. Its history includes serving as a major route for ancient Polynesian migration and later for European exploration, notably by Ferdinand Magellan who named it “Pacific” for its calm waters. Today, it remains vital for global trade, marine biodiversity, and cultural connections among the many islands and nations along its vast expanse.

Bay of Bengal

The Bay of Bengal, the world’s largest bay, is a vast body of water bordered by India, Bangladesh, Myanmar, and several other countries. Historically, it served as a crucial maritime highway for ancient trade routes, connecting the Indian subcontinent with Southeast Asia and beyond. Its shores have witnessed the rise of powerful empires and colonial powers, and today it remains a vital region for commerce, fisheries, and geopolitics.