Severe Heatwave Predicted in Delhi, Punjab, and Haryana Over the Next Five Days

The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has forecasted a severe heatwave to hit Delhi, Punjab, and Haryana over the next five days, with no relief expected from the intense heat gripping these regions.

In Briefly

• Delhi’s Soaring Temperatures: The capital’s temperature is anticipated to climb to 45 degrees Celsius this week. On Sunday, Delhi experienced its highest temperature of the season at 44.4 degrees Celsius. The heatwave will persist, with temperatures predicted to reach 44 degrees Celsius on Monday and possibly hitting 45 degrees Celsius on Tuesday, Friday, and Saturday.
• Broader Impact Across Northern India: In addition to Delhi, the IMD has issued severe heatwave warnings for parts of Rajasthan from Tuesday to Friday and certain regions in Uttar Pradesh on Monday and Tuesday. Haryana and Punjab are also expected to endure extreme temperatures, with areas such as Chandigarh reaching 44.2 degrees Celsius and Faridkot hitting 44 degrees Celsius.
• Extensive Heatwave Conditions: Other states, including Gujarat, Madhya Pradesh, Jharkhand, West Bengal, Odisha, Bihar, Uttarakhand, and Himachal Pradesh, will also face heatwave conditions this week. Sunday’s highest temperatures were recorded in Delhi’s Najafgarh at 47.8 degrees Celsius, Sriganganagar and Anta in Rajasthan at 46.7 degrees Celsius, and Nuh in Haryana at 47.2 degrees Celsius. Notably, Madhya Pradesh’s Datia saw temperatures of 47.5 degrees Celsius, while Agra and Jhansi in Uttar Pradesh recorded 47.7 and 47.2 degrees Celsius, respectively.
• Health Advisory and Precautions: The IMD has issued a health advisory, urging residents in affected areas to avoid direct sun exposure, wear light-colored cotton clothing, and use hats or umbrellas for protection. The intense heat poses a high risk of heat illness and heat stroke for people of all ages, with vulnerable groups such as infants, the elderly, and individuals with chronic conditions being particularly at risk.

Predictions for Southern India:

• Heavy Rainfall Forecast: While northern parts of India brace for extreme heat, the IMD has predicted heavy rainfall in parts of Karnataka, Tamil Nadu, Kerala, and Puducherry this week. Lakshadweep is expected to experience heavy rain on Monday and Tuesday, and light to moderate rain is forecast for the Andaman and Nicobar Islands over the next seven days.

The stark contrast in weather conditions across India underscores the diverse climatic challenges faced by the country. As the northern regions struggle with severe heatwaves, the southern states prepare for significant rainfall, highlighting the importance of adaptive measures and preparedness in different parts of the country.