Lucknow: The nine-day period of intense summer heat known as “Nautapa” began, bringing scorching temperatures and heatwave conditions across large parts of Uttar Pradesh. The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued a red alert for several districts in eastern Uttar Pradesh, warning of severe heatwave conditions, while western districts may witness slight relief due to thunderstorms and light rainfall.
According to the latest weather bulletin issued by the IMD’s Lucknow centre, temperatures are expected to rise sharply in many parts of the state over the next several days, particularly in districts located around the Tropic of Cancer belt stretching from Prayagraj to Agra.
The Meteorological Department has issued a heatwave red alert for districts including Prayagraj, Fatehpur, Pratapgarh, Mirzapur, Chandauli, Varanasi, Bhadohi, Banda and Kaushambi. Hot westerly winds are expected to blow at speeds of up to 40 kmph in these areas.
Weather officials said that while eastern Uttar Pradesh will continue to experience intense heat, some districts may receive light to moderate rainfall accompanied by thunderstorms and lightning activity. Districts including Azamgarh, Mau, Ambedkar Nagar, Balrampur, Gonda, Maharajganj, Sant Kabir Nagar, Gorakhpur, Deoria, Basti, Shravasti and Ballia are likely to witness gusty winds and scattered showers.
Meanwhile, western Uttar Pradesh, including Noida, Ghaziabad, Meerut and Moradabad, is expected to get temporary respite from the heat due to possible thunderstorms and intermittent rain. However, the IMD has still advised caution as hot and humid conditions are likely to persist.
In Indian astrology and traditional belief systems, Nautapa begins when the Sun enters the Rohini Nakshatra and is considered the hottest period of the summer season. It is widely believed that the more intense the heat during Nautapa, the better the monsoon rainfall later in the season, making it an important phase for agriculture and farming activities.
Meteorologists have advised people, especially children, elderly citizens, and outdoor workers, to avoid prolonged exposure to direct sunlight, stay hydrated, and follow heatwave safety precautions during the coming days.
