Madhya Pradesh is heading into its third bout of unsettled weather this month, with the India Meteorological Department (IMD) issuing thunderstorm alerts for March 27, 28, and 29. A fresh western disturbance is driving the change, with Ujjain, Gwalior, Chambal, and Sagar divisions expected to bear the brunt.
Before the rains arrive, residents across the state will feel the sting of intense heat on Thursday. Divisions including Ujjain, Bhopal, Sagar, and Narmadapuram are set to experience high temperatures before the system moves in.
Temperatures Surge Across Major Cities
Wednesday’s heat was already harsh. Five cities crossed 38 degrees Celsius, with Narmadapuram topping the state at 38.8°C. Ratlam followed at 38.6°C, and Khandwa reached 38.5°C. Among the major urban centres, Ujjain was the hottest at 36.5°C.
| City | Max Temp (°C) | Forecast |
|---|---|---|
| Narmadapuram | 38.8 | Heat, then thunderstorm |
| Ratlam | 38.6 | Heat, then rain |
| Khandwa | 38.5 | Heat, then rain |
| Khargone | 38.0 | Heat, then rain |
| Ujjain | 36.5 | Heat, then thunderstorm |
| Bhopal | 35.8 | Heat, then thunderstorm |
| Jabalpur | 36.1 | Rain likely |
| Indore | 36.0 | Rain likely |
| Gwalior | 35.1 | Thunderstorm alert |
March has already seen two active weather spells. The first stretched across four consecutive days, bringing thunderstorms and rain to more than 45 districts and hail to 17. Wheat, papaya, and banana crops suffered widespread damage. Farmers are now watching the skies with growing anxiety as a third spell approaches.
Another System Brewing from March 28
The IMD says another western disturbance is likely to activate from the night of March 28, potentially pushing unsettled conditions into early April.
The broader outlook for the summer is sobering. The meteorological department has forecast the highest heatwave intensity in April and May this year. Mercury could cross 45°C in parts of Gwalior, Chambal, Jabalpur, Rewa, Shahdol, and Sagar divisions. Bhopal, Indore, Ujjain, and Narmadapuram will also see significant warmth.
Historical data from the past decade shows March in Madhya Pradesh typically brings cold nights, hot days, and occasional rain. This year, that pattern has held, only with greater intensity at every turn.
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