India’s weather patterns are shifting in surprising ways this April, with a rare blend of pre-monsoon thunderstorms, snow-covered mountains, and intense heatwaves affecting different parts of the country. As western regions like Rajasthan and Gujarat continue to battle searing temperatures, the northern hills have turned white again, and the plains are gearing up for unexpected showers.
According to the India Meteorological Department (IMD), this weather transition could persist for over a week, bringing significant changes in temperature and wind activity across several regions.
Pre-Monsoon Showers and Thunderstorms Ahead
The IMD forecasts a dip of 3 to 4 degrees Celsius in the temperatures across northern and central India’s plains due to a unique clash of air systems. Moisture-laden winds from the Bay of Bengal are colliding with hot, dry air sweeping in from the west. This interaction is expected to trigger thunderstorms, dust storms, and rain showers across parts of Punjab, Haryana, Delhi, Uttar Pradesh, Bihar, and Jharkhand.
Delhi is likely to remain cloudy with intermittent rain and gusty winds. Bihar and Jharkhand, too, could see intense thunderstorm activity accompanied by lightning and strong winds over the next few days.
Snowfall in the Hills: A Weather Gamechanger
Friday’s unexpected snowfall across Himalayan regions, including Jammu & Kashmir, Himachal Pradesh, and Ladakh, has added a fresh twist to India’s April weather story. The IMD reports that the impact of this snow will be felt across the plains within two to three days, reducing temperatures and sparking more pre-monsoon activity.
Heavy rainfall is also expected in parts of Jammu & Kashmir, Gilgit-Baltistan, Muzaffarabad, and Himachal Pradesh. The weather department has issued alerts for potential storms in these areas, cautioning travelers and residents to stay prepared.
Heatwave Lingers in the West
While the north cools down, western India remains under the grip of a heatwave. Rajasthan and Gujarat continue to record daytime temperatures ranging from 40°C to 44°C. The IMD suggests there won’t be any significant relief from this scorching spell in the western belt until at least April 20.
States like Telangana, Maharashtra, Madhya Pradesh, and parts of Uttar Pradesh and Delhi may also see high temperatures hovering around 40°C to 42°C during this period.
What’s Driving These Extreme Weather Patterns?
A major reason behind the ongoing fluctuations is the presence of western disturbances—moist winds originating from the Mediterranean that often bring rain and snow to northern India during the winter and pre-summer months. A powerful western disturbance is currently active along India’s northern border, and meteorologists expect another to follow soon after.
Adding to the complexity is the fading La Niña effect in the Pacific Ocean. While La Niña has weakened, its lingering influence continues to cause instability in the Indian subcontinent’s atmosphere. As a result, April 2025 is showing more weather volatility than usual.
Rain Across the East and South Too
The IMD also predicts rain and gusty winds in parts of West Bengal, the Northeast, Kerala, and the Andaman and Nicobar Islands. These regions may experience short bursts of heavy rain over the coming days.
As the hot and humid conditions prevail in the south and east, the collision of air masses is likely to trigger more thunderstorms, especially in coastal and hilly areas.
Temperature Trends Across India
Despite the storms, temperatures in several parts of India are expected to remain high. Here’s a look at predicted maximum temperatures across regions:
- Delhi-NCR: 38°C to 40°C with rain spells
- Rajasthan & Gujarat: 41°C to 44°C, dry and hot
- Bihar & Jharkhand: 36°C to 39°C with thunderstorms
- Telangana & Maharashtra: 40°C to 42°C
- Northeast India & West Bengal: 33°C to 36°C with rainfall
- Kerala & Andaman Islands: 31°C to 34°C with scattered showers
What Lies Ahead?
As April progresses, weather experts believe the arrival of multiple western disturbances will keep India’s weather from settling into its usual summer rhythm. The pre-monsoon season seems to have arrived earlier and more intensely than expected.
For now, residents across India are advised to monitor local forecasts, take heat precautions in western regions, and prepare for storms and rainfall in the north, east, and hill states. This weather rollercoaster might just continue into early May, delaying the onset of intense summer heat and offering some unexpected relief to large parts of the country.
