New Delhi, May 24: A heatwave is expected to continue across large parts of Northwestern India for the next four to five days. A ‘Red Alert’ has been issued for Uttar Pradesh and Madhya Pradesh, while a ‘Yellow Alert’ is in effect for Delhi, Punjab, Haryana, and Rajasthan.
Meteorologist Akhil Srivastava stated that a ‘Western Disturbance’ is currently centered over Jammu and Kashmir, which may lead to thunderstorms in hilly regions, particularly in Jammu and Kashmir, Himachal Pradesh, and Uttarakhand.
He mentioned, “Today, a Western Disturbance is focused over Jammu and Kashmir. Given this, thunderstorms are likely in hilly areas, mainly Jammu and Kashmir, Himachal Pradesh, and Uttarakhand.”
Srivastava also indicated that there is a possibility of hail in various locations across Jammu. He added, “Hail is also expected in several areas of Jammu. An ‘Orange Alert’ has been issued for Jammu and Kashmir in light of this.”
He further noted that thunderstorms may occur in the plains as well, but they are unlikely to provide significant relief from the ongoing heat.
“The heatwave currently affecting Northwestern India is expected to persist for the next four to five days. There is little chance of a major change in maximum temperatures,” he said.
Meanwhile, on Sunday, Chandigarh, Punjab, and parts of Himachal Pradesh continued to experience heatwave conditions, causing residents to face rising temperatures and challenging daytime conditions.
A resident of Chandigarh expressed concern, stating that the increasing heat is becoming a worry not just for humans but also for animals and the environment. “The heat is rising significantly, and we must care for ourselves as well as birds, animals, and trees,” he said.
The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has advised residents in affected areas to avoid prolonged exposure to direct sunlight during the hottest parts of the day, stay hydrated, and take necessary precautions to prevent heat-related illnesses.
The persistent high temperatures in Northern and Central India have raised concerns about their impact on public health and agriculture. Officials are closely monitoring upcoming weather changes.
In Unnao, Uttar Pradesh, the heatwave is severe, with no relief in sight for residents. A local youth remarked that the heat is so intense that the streets are deserted. “The heat has been severe for about ten days now,” he said.
Shopkeeper Imran Khan noted that the extreme heat has kept people indoors, affecting business. “We are struggling to make ends meet,” he lamented. An e-rickshaw driver added that the heat has led to a lack of passengers, causing widespread distress.
In Chhatarpur, Madhya Pradesh, a businesswoman affected by the heatwave stated that people are unable to venture outside in the scorching sun, impacting sales of clay pots. A flower vendor echoed similar sentiments, saying that the heat is affecting business as people are reluctant to go out. The heat is expected to intensify during the upcoming period known as ‘Nautapa.’
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