Scorching Heatwave Hits North India: Delhi Braces For Temperatures Soaring To 45°C

An orange alert has been issued for Delhi, Punjab, Haryana, and Rajasthan, indicating a 'high health concern' for those at risk due to the severe heatwave conditions expected over the next few days.

By Saturday, temperatures in the National Capital are predicted to rise to 45 degrees Celsius. The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has upgraded the heatwave warning from a yellow to a severe alert, extending it to Wednesday for Mumbai as well, as reported by First Post.

Photo Credit: PTI

Heatwave Intensity and Affected Regions

Northwest India is forecasted to endure sultry conditions for the next five days. According to the IMD, "Severe heatwave conditions are very likely in some parts of west Rajasthan during 17-20 May and in Punjab, Haryana, and Delhi during 18-20 May."

This alert signifies a high health concern, especially for vulnerable groups such as the elderly, children, and those with chronic illnesses.

Health Risks and Precautions

Residents of affected areas are advised to take necessary precautions. Those who work outdoors or spend significant time in the sun are at increased risk of heat-related illnesses. The highest temperature readings have already been observed in Rajasthan, reaching up to 46 degrees Celsius.

Similar weather conditions are expected in Gujarat, Uttar Pradesh, Bihar, Haryana, and Madhya Pradesh, where temperatures are two to three degrees above average, as reported by First Post.

Extended Heatwave Spell

A new phase of scorching heat is anticipated to commence over east and central India on 18 May. East Rajasthan, Uttar Pradesh, Madhya Pradesh, Bihar, Gujarat, Jharkhand, Gangetic West Bengal, and Odisha are under a yellow alert, as per media reports.

The IMD has reported that there is no immediate chance of rain, and a subsidence of hot air due to an anticyclone over northwest India is contributing to the rising temperatures.

Contrasting Weather Patterns in Southern India

In contrast to the northern regions, southern India is expected to experience rainfall and thunderstorms. The southwest monsoon is projected to enter the south Andaman Sea, portions of the Bay of Bengal, and the Nicobar Islands by Sunday.

Rainfall and thunderstorms are forecasted across Tamil Nadu, Puducherry, south Karnataka, Kerala, and coastal Andhra Pradesh and Telangana. Kerala and Tamil Nadu are under a "very heavy rainfall" advisory through Monday, while mild showers are expected in other states.

Climate Change and Long-Term Implications

Climate scientists have emphasized that heatwaves exacerbated by climate change are significantly worsening living conditions, particularly for the poor across Asia, as per media reports. The World Weather Attribution (WWA) group has highlighted that heatwaves, now roughly 45 times more likely due to climate change, could become common occurrences every 30 years.

This year's heatwave has already led to unprecedented high temperatures in April across eastern, northeastern, and southern peninsular India, resulting in health advisories and school closures in several regions.

India is currently experiencing extreme weather conditions, with severe heatwaves affecting northern and central regions while southern states brace for heavy rainfall and thunderstorms. The IMD's alerts and advisories underscore the need for vigilance and preparedness to mitigate health risks and adapt to the changing climate.