India Heatwave: 48°C Scorcher Triggers Nationwide Alert Until May 28

Top Summary

• What happened: A severe heatwave is gripping India, with temperatures soaring to nearly 48°C in some areas.
• Why it matters: Prolonged exposure to extreme heat poses significant health risks and strains infrastructure, impacting vulnerable populations.
• What changes for people: A nationwide heatwave alert is in effect until May 28, with advisories to avoid sun exposure and stay hydrated.
• Who is affected: Northwest, central, eastern, and parts of peninsular India, including Delhi-NCR, Uttar Pradesh, Rajasthan, and Madhya Pradesh are all affected.

Scorching Temperatures Grip the Nation

Large swathes of India are experiencing an intense heatwave. Temperatures are nearing 48 degrees Celsius in several regions. Authorities have issued health advisories due to concerns about prolonged exposure.

The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued a warning. Heatwave to severe heatwave conditions are expected to continue across many parts of India until May 28.

IMD Issues Heatwave Alert

The IMD forecasts heatwave conditions to persist over large parts of northwest, central, and eastern India. Severe heatwave conditions are likely in East Uttar Pradesh and East Madhya Pradesh between May 22 and May 28.

The weather department also predicts heatwave conditions in Punjab, Haryana, Chandigarh, and Delhi. Severe heatwave spells are expected between May 24 and May 27. Rajasthan is also expected to continue experiencing intense heat.

Delhi-NCR Struggles Under Intense Heat

Delhi continues to reel under severe heat. Temperatures are well above normal across most parts of the national capital.

Safdarjung recorded a maximum temperature of 43.3 degrees Celsius. The Ridge observatory touched 44.4 degrees Celsius. The IMD has maintained a heatwave alert for Delhi until May 28.

Uttar Pradesh Endures Extreme Heat

Uttar Pradesh has emerged as one of the worst-affected states. Banda recorded the highest temperature in the country at 47.6 degrees Celsius. Prayagraj registered 46.6 degrees Celsius, and Varanasi recorded 45.6 degrees Celsius.

The IMD issued a red alert for 10 districts in the state. Authorities in Banda switched off traffic signals during peak afternoon hours.

Central and Eastern India Suffer

Madhya Pradesh is witnessing prolonged periods of severe heat. East Madhya Pradesh is expected to face severe heatwave conditions throughout the forecast period.

Eastern states like Jharkhand, Odisha, and West Bengal are facing a dangerous combination of heat and high humidity. The IMD has also warned of warm night conditions in Odisha until May 26.

Southern and Himalayan Regions Affected

The heatwave has also extended into parts of southern India. Coastal Andhra Pradesh, Yanam, and Telangana are likely to witness heatwave conditions.

Even the Himalayan states are witnessing unusual heat patterns. The IMD has forecast isolated heatwave conditions in Jammu & Kashmir, Himachal Pradesh, and Uttarakhand.

Why This Heatwave Is More Dangerous

Climate experts link the increasing intensity and duration of heatwaves in India to climate change. The duration of heatwaves has increased by around 0.44 days per decade.

Rising nighttime temperatures and increasing humidity levels have made recent heatwaves significantly more dangerous. Authorities have urged residents to avoid direct sun exposure during peak hours and remain hydrated.

What to Watch Next

Monitor IMD updates for any changes in the heatwave forecast and follow local health advisories. Pay close attention to vulnerable populations and ensure they have access to cooling and hydration.