Q1. According to the India Meteorological Department's standard criteria, when is a heatwave declared over the plains of India?
A When the maximum temperature crosses 30 degrees Celsius
B When the maximum temperature crosses 35 degrees Celsius
C When the maximum temperature crosses 40 degrees Celsius Correct
D When the maximum temperature crosses 45 degrees Celsius
Explanation
IMD declares a heatwave over the plains when the maximum temperature reaches 40 degrees Celsius or more (and 30 degrees Celsius in hill stations). A severe heatwave is declared when the departure from the normal maximum temperature is 6.5 degrees Celsius or more. The April 23, 2026 alert for Bikaner, Jaisalmer, Phalodi, Hanumangarh, Sri Ganganagar, Sikar and Karauli applied this severe heatwave classification.