New Delhi: The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued a red alert for several states in north India, including Rajasthan, Punjab, Haryana-Chandigarh-Delhi, and west Uttar Pradesh, as the region continues to experience severe heatwave conditions over the next five days. The maximum daytime temperatures in these states are expected to surpass 47°C, offering little relief to the people suffering from the intense summer heat.
Naresh Kumar, a senior IMD scientist, stated in an interview, "Temperatures are currently above normal across north west India and we had issued a red alert for the region over the past 2-3 days. With regard to a state-wise forecast, we have issued a red alert in Rajasthan for the next five days. The maximum temperature is likely to inch further up from 45°C and settle at 47°C."
Kumar also mentioned that while Punjab and Haryana have seen a slight decrease in maximum temperatures due to a western disturbance, the temperatures are expected to rise by 2 to 3 degrees in the coming days. The IMD has also issued a red alert for Uttar Pradesh for the next five days and an orange alert for northern parts of Madhya Pradesh. In contrast, the southern states of Tamil Nadu and Kerala are likely to experience heavy to very heavy rainfall, up to 12 cm, over the next 2-3 days.
Health experts have cautioned people against venturing outdoors, particularly between 11 am and 4 pm, as the extreme heat can lead to various health issues, ranging from rashes and dehydration to heat exhaustion and heat strokes. Dr Neeraj Nishchal, a professor at the Department of Medicine in AIIMS, Delhi, emphasised that heat wave conditions can cause physiological strain, which can be life-threatening.
To minimize the impact of the heat wave and prevent serious health problems, doctors recommend staying indoors as much as possible, and if necessary, taking adequate protection when going outside, especially between noon and 3 pm. They also advise drinking sufficient fluids regularly, even if not thirsty, and wearing lightweight, light-colored, loose, and porous cotton clothing.
