The India Meteorological Department has issued heatwave guidance and advisories as several parts of the country continue to experience rising temperatures and above-normal conditions.
The maximum temperatures across northwest, central, and peninsular India are currently hovering between 40 degrees Celsius and 44 degrees Celsius. It added that in several regions, temperatures have been observed to be markedly above normal by 5 degrees Celsius or more, indicating a developing heat stress scenario across parts of the country. It also said that the health impacts of heat waves typically involve dehydration, heat cramps, heat exhaustion and/or heat stroke.
The IMD has emphasised that early awareness and preventive action are critical in reducing heat-related illnesses such as heat exhaustion and heat stroke. It includes staying hydrated, avoiding direct sun exposure during peak hours, wearing light clothing, and taking special care of vulnerable groups such as children, the elderly, and outdoor workers. The department has further projected that there will be no significant change in maximum temperatures over northwest India till the 27th of this month.
The IMD extended outlook indicates that heatwave conditions are likely to persist across multiple regions over the next 7 days, particularly in parts of Punjab, Haryana, Delhi, Rajasthan, Uttar Pradesh, Madhya Pradesh, Chhattisgarh and Vidarbha.
