New Delhi: A brutal heatwave continues to scorch vast swathes of North India, with several cities witnessing temperatures exceeding 45 degrees Celsius. The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued a red alert for Rajasthan, Punjab, Haryana, Chandigarh, Delhi, western Uttar Pradesh, and Gujarat, warning of severe heatwave conditions until May 29.Rajasthan records highest temperature in yearsPhalodi in Rajasthan emerged as the hottest location, recording a staggering 50 degrees Celsius on Saturday – the highest temperature since June 2019. Other cities in the state, including Barmer (48.8°C), Jaisalmer (48°C), and Bikaner (47.2°C), also sweltered under the intense heat.Heatwave expands reachThe scorching grip of the heatwave extends beyond North India, with unusual warmth reported in parts of Himachal Pradesh. At least 17 locations across Punjab, Haryana, Rajasthan, Uttar Pradesh, Gujarat, and Madhya Pradesh witnessed highs exceeding 45 degrees Celsius on Saturday.Akola sizzles as authorities step inAkola, a city in Maharashtras Vidarbha region, has been the hottest in the state for the past two days, with temperatures hovering above 45 degrees Celsius. In response to the concerning heatwave conditions, District Collector Ajit Kumbhar imposed Section 144 of the Criminal Procedure Code, prohibiting public gatherings until May 31.Prioritizing worker safety and adjusted schedulesThe Collectors directive mandates all establishments to ensure proper availability of drinking water and cooling fans for workers. Additionally, private coaching classes must adjust their timings to avoid the hottest part of the afternoon. Furthermore, the order prohibits industrial workers from working under direct sunlight during peak heat hours.Akola records seasons highest temperatureAkola recorded its seasons highest temperature this month on Friday at 45.8 degrees Celsius. Saturday saw a slight dip to 45.6 degrees Celsius, according to IMD data.Heatwave extends grip, relief uncertainThe relentless heatwave is expected to persist across North India until May 29, with little respite in sight. Even regions like Himachal Pradesh, Assam, and Meghalaya will not be spared from the scorching temperatures. The situation is particularly concerning in Rajasthan, Punjab, Haryana, Chandigarh, Delhi, western Uttar Pradesh, and Gujarat, where a red alert remains in effect.Heatwave threatens to worsenThe IMD predicts a further worsening of warm night conditions in Uttar Pradesh, Punjab, Haryana, Delhi, and Rajasthan over the next four days. These conditions are likely to exacerbate heat-related stress for residents in these areas.
