As of April 22, 2026, India is currently grappling with a severe pre-monsoon heatwave where humidity is emerging as the primary health risk. The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has warned that the combination of high temperatures and moisture is pushing several regions toward dangerous “wet-bulb” conditions.
Current Alerts (April 21–26, 2026)
The IMD has issued a Yellow Alert for several regions, highlighting two distinct types of heat risks:
| Risk Category | Affected Regions | Forecast Details |
| Extreme Dry Heat | Delhi-NCR, Punjab, Haryana, Rajasthan, UP | Temperatures hitting 43–45°C. Yellow alert for Delhi through April 24. |
| Hot & Humid Heat | Coastal Andhra, Kerala, Tamil Nadu, Odisha, WB | High humidity coupled with 38–40°C temps, making it feel like 48°C+. |
The “Wet-Bulb” Danger Explained
Scientists are specifically tracking the Wet-Bulb Temperature (WBT)—a measure of how well the body can cool itself via sweat.
-
The Threshold: While 35°C WBT was long considered the human limit, 2026 research from the Penn State HEAT Project shows healthy adults begin losing internal temperature control at just 31°C WBT.
-
The Risk: In coastal regions like Kerala and West Bengal, even a moderate temperature of 38°C with 60% humidity can push the WBT past safe limits, leading to rapid overheating, heart stress, and organ failure.
Regional Impact & Forecast
-
Eastern India: Gangetic West Bengal and Odisha are under a “Hot and Humid” warning until April 26.
-
North India: A gradual rise of 3–4°C is expected over the next 48 hours across Northwest India, with “warm night” conditions preventing the body from recovering after sunset.
-
Monsoon Delay: Early forecasts suggest the 2026 Southwest Monsoon may be below normal (92% of average) due to El Niño, which could extend the period of humid heat well into June.
Safety Guidelines for the Week
[!IMPORTANT]
Monitor the “Feels Like” Temp: Do not rely on the thermometer alone; check the Heat Index
Hydration: Drink water even if you don’t feel thirsty.
Outdoor Work: Avoid peak hours (12:00 PM – 4:00 PM), especially in coastal states where humidity is high.
Vulnerable Groups: Elderly residents and those on medication are at 2x higher risk during humid heatwaves as their bodies struggle more with evaporative cooling.
