According to the latest forecasts from the India Meteorological Department (IMD), India is experiencing highly diverse weather patterns today, May 16, 2026. This year, several parts of the country are recording above-average rainfall for the month of May, bringing much-needed relief from the intense summer heat. However, plains across Northwest and Central India continue to face scorching temperatures and ongoing heatwave conditions, while pre-monsoon activities remain fully active across South and East India.
Regional Weather and Temperature Breakdown
Due to geographical variations, the weather conditions and maximum temperatures across major regions and metropolitan cities today are as follows:
- Delhi-NCR and North India: The capital and its surrounding regions will experience primarily clear skies, with partial cloud cover developing by afternoon or evening. Maximum temperatures are expected to hover between 40°C and 44°C. While isolated pockets might see light drizzle accompanied by strong gusty winds, heatwave conditions will persist.
- Rajasthan, Madhya Pradesh, and Northwest India: This region is currently bearing the brunt of the peak summer heat. Mercury levels in several districts of Rajasthan and Madhya Pradesh are projected to hit between 44°C and 47°C. The weather department has issued severe heatwave alerts for these zones, advising citizens to take necessary precautions.
- Mumbai and West India (Maharashtra & Gujarat): Coastal Maharashtra, including Mumbai, along with Gujarat, continues to experience hot and highly humid weather. Daytime temperatures are likely to range from 35°C to 38°C. Parts of the Konkan region may witness light rain accompanied by thunder and lightning.
- Bengaluru and Karnataka: Southern Karnataka and Bengaluru are enjoying remarkably pleasant weather. The maximum daytime temperature is staying between 28°C and 32°C, which is significantly lower than typical seasonal averages. Light to moderate evening showers are highly anticipated.
- Chennai and South India (Kerala & Tamil Nadu): Driven by active pre-monsoon systems, widespread areas of Kerala and interior Tamil Nadu are receiving moderate to heavy rainfall accompanied by thunderstorms and strong winds. Chennai will remain mostly cloudy today with scattered light showers, maintaining temperatures between 32°C and 37°C.
- Kolkata and East/Northeast India: Thunderstorm, lightning, and squall warnings have been issued across West Bengal, Bihar, and the northeastern states. Temperatures in Kolkata are expected to range from 34°C to 38°C amid cloudy conditions.
What is Driving This Weather Variation?
An analysis of the IMD’s monthly outlook indicates that moisture-laden winds traveling from the Bay of Bengal and the Arabian Sea are triggering early pre-monsoon systems across Southern and Eastern India. Conversely, the continuous influx of dry, continental westerly winds is sustaining high thermal pressure and heatwave conditions over the northern and western plains.
Essential Health and Safety Guidelines
- For Heat-Affected Zones: Avoid direct exposure to sunlight between 12:00 PM and 4:00 PM. Stay well-hydrated by drinking ample water and wear light-colored, breathable cotton clothing.
- For Rain-Affected Zones: Seek shelter in stable, permanent structures during periods of heavy lightning and strong winds. Avoid standing near weak trees or temporary hoardings.
- For Farmers: Given the unpredictable weather shifts, secure harvested crops in covered spaces and schedule irrigation fields strictly based on localized, short-term updates.
Disclaimer: This weather report is compiled from official data issued by the India Meteorological Department (IMD) and other global meteorological platforms available as of May 16, 2026. Weather is a dynamic natural phenomenon, and sudden localized variations are common. Please consult your local meteorological center for real-time live updates before planning travel or agricultural activities.
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