Maharashtra Temp Hits Record High: Chandrapur Becomes India’s Hottest City At 45.6°C; Heatwave Alert Issued

Chandrapur has become the hottest city in India after recording a temperature of 45.6 degrees Celsius on Monday, according to a Deccan Herald report. This extreme heat has prompted the district administration to issue a heatwave alert for the next three days, advising citizens to take extra precautions when going outdoors.

According to the Regional Meteorological Centre (RMC) in Nagpur, 11 cities in the Vidarbha region have recorded temperatures above 40 degrees Celsius, with Chandrapur's 45.6 degrees Celsius being 3.6 degrees higher than the normal average for this time of year. Amravati recorded a temperature of 44.6 degrees Celsius, Akola saw 44.1 degrees Celsius, and Nagpur's temperature reached 43.6 degrees Celsius, the Indian Meteorological Department (IMD) reported.

The region has been experiencing extreme heat since last week, and the heatwave alert has been extended for areas within Chandrapur district until April 24. Bramhapuri tehsil also recorded a temperature of 45 degrees Celsius, making it the second hottest city in the region.

Impact On Wildlife

Amid these soaring temperatures, there has been a significant impact on local wildlife. As per Times Now report, a total of 91 animals, including birds and reptiles, have been rescued in and around Mumbai due to severe dehydration caused by the oppressive heat. The animals were found in distress and were showing signs of dehydration, an official from the forest department confirmed.

The rescues were carried out by the forest department in collaboration with the NGO Resqink Association for Wildlife Welfare (RAWW), led by honorary wildlife warden Pawan Sharma. The rescued animals, including Bonnet Macaques, kites, and parakeets, will be treated and then released back into their natural habitats.

Sharma, who is the founder-president of RAWW, explained that cases of wildlife suffering from dehydration have increased over the last five years, particularly during the hotter months. "We have rescued more than a dozen animals this month alone," he said.

He also urged the public to remain vigilant and report any wildlife in distress to the forest department by calling the 1926 toll-free helpline.

Long-Lasting Heat in Maharashtra

Mumbai and its surrounding areas have been facing intense heat since February, with temperatures continuing to rise. The ongoing heatwave, coupled with the low rainfall in the region, has raised concerns about the environmental and health impacts, especially for vulnerable populations and wildlife.

With the heatwave set to continue, residents are advised to stay hydrated, wear light clothing, and limit outdoor activities during peak heat hours. Authorities are also keeping a close watch on the situation, ensuring that measures are in place to protect both people and animals from the extreme weather conditions.