Overview
- The India Meteorological Department recorded extreme daytime highs on May 22, including 46.4°C in Khammam and widespread 44–46°C readings across central and coal-belt districts.
- Local media reported at least 22 suspected heat-related deaths on May 22, with nine fatalities reported in the undivided Warangal region and other deaths across multiple districts; these counts come from local sources and lack independent verification.
- IMD has issued red alerts for several districts and advised people to avoid outdoor exposure between 11:00 and 16:00 and to stay hydrated using water, oral rehydration solutions, or buttermilk.
- The forecast calls for isolated thunderstorms with lightning and gusty winds on May 22–23 and a gradual tapering of heat-wave warnings from about May 24 as dry conditions break.
- Forecasters say hot, dry winds from Rajasthan and Maharashtra are driving the event, raising both daytime and nighttime heat stress and sharply increasing risk for daily wage labourers, truck drivers and other outdoor workers.