Heatwave Grips India: More than 20 cities crossed 42°C in the first week of April, experts warn poorly

The heat has been felt in northern India, and it is only early April. More than 20 cities have temperatures exceeding 42°C, Delhi, part of Uttar Pradesh, Rajasthan faces a strong heat wave condition. The Indian Meteorological Department (IMD) said it will only get hotter in the next few days.

Delhi’s height is 38.2°C on Sunday, 3.1 degrees higher than usual this time of year. The minimum temperature dropped to 18.5°C, slightly below normal levels. IMD warned that Monday’s temperature hit 41°C and could feel worse on Monday.

The city’s humidity ranges from 43% to 27%. This is not only heat, but also air quality is also becoming more and more concerned. As reported by the Central Pollution Control Commission (CPCB), the Air Quality Index (AQI) had 209 Sunday afternoons, falling into the “poverty” category.
IMD predicts extreme heat in Uttar Pradesh in April, May and June. The maximum temperature is expected to stay above 40°C, especially in the Bondelkand area.

Weather official Atul Kumar Singh said Bundelkhand could become a hot spot for extreme heat, and cities such as Jhansi and Chitrakootdham are already on high alert.

In the first week of April, Kanpur, Varanasi, Prayer and Hamilpur all recorded temperatures of 40°C. For example, Prayagraj hit 41.6°C on Saturday, 4.2 degrees above the average. Night temperatures are also expected to remain warm, meaning there is little relief for residents. There are fewer rainy days expected this season, making things even harder. Doctors warn people to stay safe. “Heat waves can confuse the body’s ability to keep cool, which can lead to severe dehydration and health problems,” said Dr Shantanu Mishra, a general practitioner in Lucknow.

The state government has asked hospitals to prepare for the increase in fever-related diseases. Animal shelters have been told to ensure that the animals have enough shadows and water, and the veterinary team is also on alert.

Rajasthan: Bamer’s record temperature

Rajasthan is also baked in the sun. Barmer recorded the 26-year-old record at 45.6°C on Sunday. The previous high was 45.2°C in April 1998. According to the situation in the Jaipur Metropolitan, this is 6.8 degrees higher than normal.

Other cities are also facing heat, with Jaisalmer seeing 45°C, Chittorgarh 43.2°C, Jodhpur 43°C, Kota 42.4°C and Jalore 42°C. And the heat won’t appear soon. Temperatures are expected to rise by another 3 to 4°C in parts of the state.

Southwestern Rajasthan may see a high of 44-45°C on Monday, while the east may face 42-44°C, IMD said.

Input from TOI