Residents across Delhi-NCR are likely to face intense heatwave conditions over the next few days as temperatures continue to rise sharply across the region. The India Meteorological Department has forecast severe heat and dry weather till May 23, with daytime temperatures expected to range between 42 and 45 degrees Celsius.
The weather department has issued a yellow alert for May 19 and 20, warning people about possible heatwave conditions and advising them to avoid unnecessary outdoor exposure during peak afternoon hours.
According to IMD guidelines, a heatwave in the plains is declared when the maximum temperature reaches at least 40 degrees Celsius and remains significantly above normal. A severe heatwave is recorded when temperatures rise more than 6.4 degrees Celsius above average or cross the 45-degree mark, regardless of seasonal norms. Such conditions can pose serious health risks, especially for children, senior citizens and people working outdoors for prolonged periods.
Meteorologists have predicted a gradual rise of around 2 to 3 degrees Celsius in Delhi’s temperature over the next three days. On Sunday, the national capital is expected to witness partly cloudy skies, along with the possibility of thunderstorms and gusty winds of 20-30 kmph, with speeds occasionally reaching 40 kmph. Despite brief cloud activity, the maximum temperature is likely to hover around 44 degrees Celsius. Clear skies later in the week could further intensify the heat, while warm nights may provide little relief.
Several states across North and Central India, including Rajasthan, Uttar Pradesh, Madhya Pradesh, Punjab, Haryana, Chandigarh, Chhattisgarh and Delhi, are also expected to experience heatwave conditions. The western Himalayan region may witness a temperature rise of 3 to 4 degrees Celsius.
Meanwhile, parts of Northeast and South India are likely to receive moderate rainfall accompanied by thunderstorms, lightning and strong winds. States such as Assam, Arunachal Pradesh, Nagaland, Manipur, Mizoram, Tripura, Kerala, Tamil Nadu and Andhra Pradesh may witness unstable weather conditions over the coming days.
Health experts have advised people to stay hydrated, wear light cotton clothing, avoid direct sunlight between noon and 4 p.m., and regularly check on vulnerable individuals during the ongoing heatwave.
-IANS
