Scorching Heatwave Hits Northern India
MUMBAI — Brace yourselves, folks! Northern India, including the bustling capital Delhi, is currently in the grips of a fierce heatwave, with temperatures skyrocketing above 45C over the weekend.
On Sunday, the mercury soared to a staggering 47.8C in Najafgarh district, making it the hottest recorded temperature in the country this season.
The weather department has issued a stern warning, stating that the scorching heat spell is expected to persist throughout the week.
This blistering heatwave couldn’t have come at a worse time as India is amidst its general election frenzy, with the results set to be announced on 4 June.
Indian summers, which stretch from March to September, are notorious for being hot and humid.
The Indian Meteorological Department (IMD) has sounded the alarm, revealing that the nation is in for longer and more intense heatwaves this year.
Over the weekend, temperatures soared past 45C in 10 locations across the National Capital Region (NCR), encompassing Delhi and parts of neighboring states like Uttar Pradesh, Haryana, and Rajasthan.
The IMD has forecasted that maximum temperatures in Delhi and other northern cities will hover around 45-46C on Monday and Tuesday.
Furthermore, a fresh heat spell is predicted to hit parts of western and central India in the coming days.
Several Indian states, grappling with the relentless heatwave, are also heading to the polls this week.
Tomorrow, millions of voters will exercise their democratic right in Maharashtra, Uttar Pradesh, and Bihar, while Delhi will cast its votes on 25 May.
The elections are being conducted in seven phases from 19 April to 1 June.
Many voters have voiced their discomfort with the scorching temperatures, finding it challenging to stand in long queues, especially for the elderly.
To alleviate the heat-related concerns, India’s election authorities have extended voting hours and urged citizens to take necessary precautions while heading to the polling stations.
Coping with the relentless heatwaves has always been a struggle for many in India, particularly in the northern and central regions.
While some rely on air-conditioners and water coolers for respite, others, especially in remote towns, have devised their own ingenious ways to beat the heat – from storing water in earthen pots to sipping on refreshing drinks made with raw mango pulp to stave off heat strokes. — BBC
