A relentless heatwave continues to scorch northern and central India, exacerbating temperatures well beyond seasonal norms across multiple states. Regions including Uttar Pradesh, Madhya Pradesh, Rajasthan, Punjab, Haryana, Chandigarh, Bihar, and Jharkhand are grappling with extreme heat conditions, with daytime highs frequently surpassing 45 degrees Celsius. In some areas, temperatures have dangerously approached the 50-degree mark, prompting health advisories and cautioning against outdoor activities.
The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued orange alerts across several states, particularly highlighting Delhi where the heat index has soared exceptionally high. Relief is anticipated with the onset of monsoon rains, expected to advance over southern India by mid-June. Even parts of traditionally cooler regions like Jammu & Kashmir and Himachal Pradesh are experiencing heatwave-like conditions, underscoring the severity and extent of the current weather patterns.
Bathinda in Punjab emerged as the hottest location in India on Tuesday, recording a scorching 47.6 degrees Celsius, closely followed by Ganganagar in Rajasthan at 47.4 degrees Celsius. Other cities in Rajasthan reported similarly extreme temperatures, with Kota at 46.3°C, Churu at 45.5°C, Chittorgarh at 45.4°C, and Bikaner at 45.3°C.
In Haryana, maximum temperatures soared with Sirsa reaching 46.2°C, Rohtak at 46.1°C, and Narnaul at 45.2°C. Meanwhile, Madhya Pradesh faced severe conditions as Nowgong recorded 46.1°C, Narmadapuram 45.9°C, Guna 45.4°C, Tikamgarh 45.2°C, and Sagar at 45°C. Uttar Pradesh witnessed Jhansi as the hottest location with temperatures reaching 46°C, followed by Aurai at 45.2°C and Agra at 45.1°C.
Delhi remains under an orange alert due to the intense heatwave. On Wednesday, temperatures soared in various parts of the capital: Aya Nagar reached 45.5°C, Palam 44.6°C, Ridge 45°C, Lodhi Road 43.6°C, and Safdarjung 43.8°C. Similar weather conditions are expected to persist in the Delhi-NCR region, albeit with potential relief through nighttime rainfall.
According to IMD forecasts, robust monsoon rains are anticipated in southern India between June 12 and 15. Northern India, including the Delhi-NCR region, is also expected to witness monsoon progression shortly thereafter. The monsoon is projected to reach Delhi around June 28 to 29, slightly earlier than usual, offering respite from the prolonged heatwave.
The ongoing heatwave underscores the critical need for precautionary measures and public health advisories to mitigate the impact of extreme temperatures on vulnerable populations. As the country braces for monsoon rains, anticipation grows for relief from the oppressive heatwave gripping the region.
Leave Your Comment