NEW DELHI: Extreme heatwave conditions continue to grip large swathes of Northwest and Eastern India, pushing temperatures to unprecedented levels and severely impacting daily life. The national capital, Delhi, bore the brunt of the searing heat on Tuesday, recording its hottest day of the season at a blistering 43.8 degrees Celsius, 3.6 notches above the seasonal average. The “real-feel” temperature, accounting for humidity, soared even higher, leaving residents desperate for respite.
The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued an orange alert for Delhi for Wednesday, with maximum temperatures forecasted to remain around 44-46 degrees Celsius. While some relief in the form of light rainfall and thunderstorms is anticipated from June 13, the immediate outlook remains grim for the capital.
Meanwhile, Rajasthan continues to reel under severe heat, with its western parts facing particularly intense conditions. Sri Ganganagar in Rajasthan recorded a staggering 47.3 degrees Celsius on Monday, marking one of the highest temperatures in the country. The IMD has issued a red alert for heatwave conditions in parts of Rajasthan for Wednesday and Thursday, indicating a critical situation that demands extreme caution. Other districts like Bikaner, Churu, and Phalodi have also seen mercury hovering above 45 degrees Celsius.
The prolonged heatwave is attributed to a stalled southwest monsoon and the lingering effects of residual moisture from earlier western disturbances, leading to uncomfortable and oppressive conditions. The absence of significant pre-monsoon showers in these regions has exacerbated the situation.
The relentless heat has triggered widespread health concerns, particularly for vulnerable populations like outdoor workers, the elderly, and children. Hospitals are reporting an increase in heat-related illnesses, including heat exhaustion and heatstroke. Power grids across affected states are also struggling to keep pace with the soaring electricity demand as millions turn to air conditioning and coolers for relief, leading to intermittent power outages in some areas.
Authorities are urging citizens to take all necessary precautions, including staying hydrated, avoiding direct sun exposure during peak hours, and wearing light clothing. While parts of Eastern India, including Uttar Pradesh, are also experiencing punishing heat, the focus remains on the critical conditions prevailing across Northwest India, with the monsoon’s full onset still weeks away for these regions.
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