The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued a ‘red alert’ for multiple states in northern India as extreme heatwave conditions persist. With temperatures expected to soar to 48 degrees Celsius this week, residents in affected areas are bracing for intense heat.
States Under Red Alert
The states facing the brunt of this heatwave include Delhi, Punjab, Haryana, Chandigarh, Rajasthan, and western Uttar Pradesh. The IMD has forecasted severe heatwave conditions over these regions for the next five days, urging citizens to take necessary precautions.
Impact on Lok Sabha Elections
The heatwave coincides with the sixth phase of the Lok Sabha elections scheduled for Saturday, May 25, which could see maximum temperatures in Delhi NCR reaching 47 degrees Celsius. Voters and election officials are advised to stay hydrated and take measures to avoid heat-related illnesses.
Expert Insights
Senior IMD scientist Naresh Kumar spoke to ANI, highlighting the unusual rise in temperatures. “Temperatures are currently above normal across North West India, and we have issued a red alert for the region over the past few days. In Rajasthan, the maximum temperature is expected to rise from 45°C to 47°C over the next five days,” he explained.
Regional Temperature Variations
In Punjab and Haryana, a slight drop in temperatures was observed due to a western disturbance, but temperatures are expected to rise by 2 to 3 degrees soon. “We have issued a red alert for these states as well. In Uttar Pradesh, the red alert will continue for the next five days, while an orange alert has been issued for northern parts of Madhya Pradesh,” Kumar added.
Precautionary Measures
Authorities are advising residents in the affected areas to avoid direct sunlight, stay hydrated, and take necessary precautions to mitigate the effects of the heatwave. Public health advisories emphasize the importance of staying indoors during peak heat hours and checking on vulnerable populations, such as the elderly and children.
The ongoing heatwave is a stark reminder of the extreme weather conditions that can occur during the summer months in India. As temperatures continue to rise, the IMD will provide regular updates and guidance to help citizens stay safe and healthy.