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Photo credit: jitendrajadhav/iStockphoto
Large swathes of North and Central India remained in the grip of an intense heatwave this week, with temperatures soaring well above 45 degrees Celsius (113°F) in many areas. The searing heat has disrupted normal life and prompted authorities to take emergency measures.
In the national capital Delhi, the mercury crossed a scorching 47°C (116.6°F) on Monday, prompting the weather office to issue a 'red alert' for the next five days due to heatwave to severe heatwave conditions. The city's peak power demand hit an all-time high for May as people cranked up air conditioners to combat the oppressive heat.
Similar scenes played out across large parts of Rajasthan, Haryana, Punjab, Uttar Pradesh and Madhya Pradesh, where temperatures hovered between 44-47°C. In Rajasthan's Ganganagar and Barmer, the mercury soared to a blistering 46°C, departing from normal by over 3.5°C. Ratlam in Madhya Pradesh recorded 45.5°C.
Heat-wave stations over country
Authorities have urged people to stay hydrated, avoid going out during peak heat hours, and take necessary precautions to prevent heat-related illnesses. The IMD had earlier warned of extreme heat during the April-June period, coinciding with the seven-phase Lok Sabha elections ending on June 1.
As the heatwave continues to affect large parts of India, residents are advised to take the warnings seriously and prioritize their health and safety during this challenging period.
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