The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued warnings of severe heatwave conditions in several regions across the country, including most parts of Rajasthan and isolated pockets of Delhi, Punjab, Haryana, and Chandigarh. Additionally, the Jammu division, Himachal Pradesh, West Uttar Pradesh, East Madhya Pradesh, Vidarbha, Central Maharashtra, and Gujarat are expected to experience the heatwave.
In Delhi, where polling for the sixth phase of Lok Sabha elections is underway, temperatures have already reached 41 degrees Celsius, one degree above normal. A 'yellow' warning has been issued, with the mercury expected to peak at 44 degrees Celsius. The Delhi poll body is making arrangements to help voters cope with the scorching heat.
Furthermore, warm night conditions are predicted over Rajasthan, Delhi, Punjab, Haryana, and Chandigarh from May 24 to May 28.
Tragically, six deaths suspected to be due to heat stroke have been reported in Rajasthan, where temperatures have soared to 49 degrees Celsius. The victims hailed from various districts, including Balotra, Bhilwara, Bikaner, and Jodhpur, where severe heatwave conditions have been observed. Phalodi recorded the highest temperature at 49 degrees Celsius.
The relentless heatwave, attributed to a high-pressure system over Northern India, has led to a significant rise in daytime temperatures. Authorities are taking necessary precautions to ensure public safety during this period of intense heat, especially considering the ongoing election activities.
