New Delhi: Severe heatwave conditions continued to intensify across Delhi and large parts of North India on Wednesday, with temperatures crossing 45 degrees Celsius in several areas of Rajasthan, Haryana, Punjab, and Uttar Pradesh. The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued red and orange alerts across multiple states as the extreme weather is expected to persist over the coming days, significantly disrupting normal life.
In Delhi, scorching heat combined with hot winds made outdoor movement extremely difficult during afternoon hours, with several localities recording temperatures above 45°C.
Uttar Pradesh remained among the worst-affected states. In Varanasi, temperatures touched 45–46°C, forcing residents to take shelter under umbrellas and cotton cloths to protect themselves from the blazing sun. A local resident told IANS that the heat was “extreme” and urged people, especially tourists and devotees, to avoid stepping out during peak afternoon hours, advising travel in the morning or evening to reduce health risks.
Hamirpur district also reported severe heatwave conditions, with residents stating that this summer feels harsher than previous years, making it difficult to step outside even briefly.
In Noida, authorities have enhanced medical preparedness amid rising heat-related illnesses. A special heat stroke cool room has been set up at the district hospital, with dedicated beds for heatstroke patients and additional doctors placed on alert duty.
In Ghazipur, Medical College Principal Dr Anand Mishra said a dedicated 10-bed heatwave ward has been established in view of temperatures ranging between 41°C and 45°C and increasing heatwave alerts.
Banda district also continued to reel under intense heatwave conditions.
In Rajasthan’s Kota, extreme temperatures have begun affecting both people and livestock. Municipal officials said arrangements such as water sprays and coolers are being provided in gaushalas to protect animals from the heat.
Chandigarh also remained under severe heat stress. IMD Director Surinder Paul stated that heatwave-like conditions are likely to continue for at least the next 48 hours.
He added that Haryana’s Rohtak recorded the highest temperature in the state at 46.9°C, while Punjab’s Faridkot registered 47°C.
Even hill states are witnessing unusual heat conditions. The Meteorological Department issued heatwave alerts for Kangra and Solan districts in Himachal Pradesh for Wednesday and Thursday. Una remained the hottest location in the state at 43.4°C, which is 4.5 degrees above normal, while Shimla recorded the season’s highest temperature at 29.4°C.
In Jammu and Kashmir’s Rajouri district, severe heatwave conditions have disrupted daily life and livelihoods. Medical experts have advised residents to stay hydrated and avoid direct sunlight during peak afternoon hours.
Across North India, authorities have urged citizens to remain indoors during peak hours, maintain hydration, and take precautions to prevent heatstroke and dehydration.
With IANS inputs