Lucknow: A severe heatwave has swept across Uttar Pradesh and several other states in India, pushing temperatures past the 40°C mark in at least 13 districts of the state on Sunday. The intense heat and hot winds have made it increasingly difficult for people to venture outdoors, prompting many to take extra precautions to avoid heat-related ailments.
According to the India Meteorological Department (IMD), districts such as Sonbhadra, Prayagraj, and Mirzapur, along with parts of Bundelkhand, are likely to face even harsher conditions starting Tuesday, with the risk of heatwave intensifying further.
On Monday, dry and hot winds battered southern districts and the Bundelkhand region. The absence of rainfall and thunderstorms across the state has only worsened the heatwave conditions. The IMD has warned that temperatures in most districts of Uttar Pradesh could rise by 3 to 5°C over the next five days.
Hamirpur Records Highest Temperature
On Monday, Hamirpur recorded the highest temperature in the state, reaching a scorching 42.6°C. Other districts such as Lucknow, Prayagraj, Agra, Banda, and Orai also saw mercury levels crossing the 40°C threshold. For the first time this season, Lucknow’s temperature soared past 40°C, with 41°C recorded at 2:30 PM.
The rising heat and hot gusts have forced residents to stay indoors during the day. Those stepping out can be seen covering their faces and carrying water bottles in an effort to stay protected.
Hottest Day of the Season in Many Areas
Monday was the hottest day of the season in several parts of the state. The diminishing impact of western disturbances has contributed to the intensifying heatwave. On Sunday, Jhansi recorded 42.2°C, and Monday’s forecast predicted a high of 41°C and a low of 23°C.
The IMD has issued a heatwave alert for the next four to five days across several districts, urging people to take necessary precautions, especially during peak afternoon hours.
Precautionary Advisory Issued
With the heatwave expected to persist, authorities have advised residents to:
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Stay hydrated
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Avoid stepping out during the hottest hours of the day
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Wear loose, light-colored clothing
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Use head coverings when outdoors
The alert comes as part of an effort to minimize health risks associated with extreme heat, especially for vulnerable groups such as children, the elderly, and those with pre-existing conditions.
As the mercury continues to climb, people across Uttar Pradesh brace for what could be one of the harshest summer spells in recent years.
