The severe heatwave gripping several states in North India, including Rajasthan, Punjab, Haryana, Delhi, and Uttar Pradesh, has prompted a 'red alert' from the India Meteorological Department (IMD) for the next five days. The IMD forecasts maximum daytime temperatures in some districts to soar beyond 47 degrees Celsius.
Naresh Kumar, a senior scientist at IMD, highlighted the current above-normal temperatures across North West India, indicating the persistence of the heatwave. Specifically, a 'red alert' has been issued for Rajasthan, projecting temperatures to reach 47 degrees Celsius over the next five days.
In Punjab and Haryana, although temperatures have slightly decreased due to a western disturbance, they are expected to rise gradually by two to three degrees, leading to the issuance of a 'red alert'. Similarly, Uttar Pradesh has also been placed under a 'red alert' for the next five days, with an 'orange alert' issued for northern parts of Madhya Pradesh.
Meanwhile, the scorching heatwave continues to impact daily life, with temperatures exceeding 45 degrees Celsius in several regions. In Haryana's Sirsa, the mercury climbed to a staggering 47.8 degrees Celsius, marking it as the hottest place in the country. Delhi witnessed temperatures remaining significantly above normal, resulting in a surge in peak power demand as people sought relief through increased air conditioner usage.
However, amidst the relentless heat in the northern regions, there is a glimmer of relief in the southern states. Heavy to very heavy rains, up to 12 cm, are forecasted in Tamil Nadu and Kerala over the next few days, providing some respite from the sweltering conditions.
