As temperatures soar across northern India, residents brace themselves for an intense heatwave set to scorch the region for over six days. The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued a ‘yellow alert’ across Haryana, warning residents to prepare for sweltering conditions from June 9 to 14.
On Sunday, the city witnessed a significant rise in temperatures, with the mercury soaring to 42.7 degrees Celsius, marking a stark increase of 1.9 notches from the previous day. Conversely, the minimum temperature dropped to 27.2 degrees Celsius, down by 3.7 notches. With humidity levels at 26% and wind speeds reaching 18 kmph, the stage is set for an oppressive heatwave.
According to IMD officials, westerly winds are responsible for bringing back the scorching conditions, ensuring residents endure relentless heat for at least six days. The ‘yellow alert’ serves as a cautionary measure, urging the public to take necessary precautions to combat heat-related illnesses such as heat stroke, heat exhaustion, and dehydration. Recommendations include staying indoors during peak daylight hours, staying hydrated, and wearing lightweight, light-colored clothing.
Despite efforts to stay indoors, residents face additional challenges as the city’s air quality index (AQI) stands at 168, categorized as ‘moderate.’ The System of Air Quality and Weather Forecasting and Research (SAFAR) predicts that the AQI is likely to deteriorate into the ‘poor’ category until Thursday, posing further health risks.
In neighboring Delhi, the situation is equally dire, with IMD issuing a ‘yellow alert’ from June 10 to 13. Delhiites experienced isolated heatwave conditions on Sunday after a brief respite. The mercury is expected to surge to 45 degrees Celsius, particularly in outer Delhi areas, intensifying the heatwave’s impact.
IMD data reveals alarming temperatures across Delhi, with some areas registering temperatures well above normal. While Safdarjung reported a maximum temperature of 42.5 degrees Celsius, other areas like Najafgarh and Narela sweltered under heatwave conditions, recording temperatures exceeding 45 degrees Celsius.
As the mercury continues to rise, IMD officials warn that heatwave conditions will persist, with temperatures expected to remain significantly above normal. Dry and warm winds from Rajasthan, coupled with clear skies, contribute to the relentless heatwave sweeping across the region.
In line with IMD criteria, a day is classified as a heatwave when the maximum temperature exceeds 4.5 degrees above normal, reaching at least 40 degrees Celsius. Moreover, temperatures touching 45 degrees Celsius warrant immediate attention, signaling an extreme heatwave.
As northern India grapples with scorching temperatures, authorities urge residents to prioritize safety measures and heed official warnings to minimize the risk of heat-related ailments. With the heatwave expected to persist, staying vigilant and adopting preventive measures remain paramount for safeguarding public health and well-being.
