New Delhi: No respite seems in sight for North India as the region continues to grapple with a relentless heatwave. The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued a grim forecast, predicting scorching temperatures to persist for the next five days.Red alert for Rajasthan, Uttar PradeshSeveral states, including Punjab, Haryana, Delhi, Rajasthan, Uttar Pradesh, Gujarat, and northwest Madhya Pradesh, are expected to bear the brunt of the heatwave. The IMD has issued a red alert for Rajasthan and Uttar Pradesh, urging residents to exercise extreme caution due to the potentially life-threatening conditions.Unfortunately, theres no relief expected in the near future, said senior IMD scientist Naresh Kumar. Weve issued red alerts for Rajasthan and Uttar Pradesh, highlighting the severity of the heatwave. Additionally, an orange alert has been issued for parts of Madhya Pradesh.Sirsa records highest temperatureOn Tuesday, the mercury soared past 45 degrees Celsius across swathes of Rajasthan, Haryana, Delhi, Chandigarh, and Uttar Pradesh. Parts of Gujarat witnessed a particularly brutal combination of high heat and humidity, further exacerbating discomfort. Sirsa in Haryana emerged as the hottest place in the country, recording a scorching 47.8 degrees Celsius.While Delhi experienced a slight dip in temperature compared to previous days, it remained significantly above normal for this time of year, hovering three to five degrees higher.Power demand reaches record highThe scorching temperatures have triggered a surge in power consumption, pushing Delhis peak power demand to an all-time high of 7,717 MW on Tuesday. With residents and offices cranking up air conditioners to combat the heat, officials anticipate demand to cross 8,000 MW and potentially peak at 8,200 MW this summer.Heatwave coincides with crucial electionsThe ongoing heatwave coincides with the critical seven-phase Lok Sabha elections, with voting for the seven Delhi seats scheduled for May 25. The IMD had previously warned of extreme heat across India during the April-June period, raising concerns about its impact on voters and election officials.As scorching temperatures persist, residents of North India are advised to stay indoors during peak heat hours, wear loose cotton clothing, and stay hydrated. Local authorities are urged to implement measures to mitigate the heats impact, particularly for vulnerable populations.
