Rising Temperatures Trigger Heatwave Alert
South Haryana is under a heatwave alert as temperatures continue to climb. The India Meteorological Department (IMD) forecasts a further rise of 1°C to 2°C in maximum temperatures over the next two days. An orange alert has been issued for the next three days, signaling severe heat conditions across the region.
The city of Gurgaon recorded a maximum temperature of 42.5°C—the hottest day of the season—while Sirsa hit 45.8°C. Most districts saw temperatures between 42°C and 46°C, with Rohtak and Jhajjar experiencing readings up to 4.4°C above normal.
Residents Struggle with Extreme Heat
Residents describe the weather as unbearable. In Sector 56, Renu Sharma found hot water coming from her tap each morning, forcing her family to store water overnight. Abhishek Mishra of DLF Phase 3 also reported steaming water and now stores water ahead of time. Kavita Yadav from Palam Vihar said stepping outside feels like entering a furnace, with dry, scorching air making even short walks exhausting.
Minimum temperatures are rising too, with Gurgaon’s lowest at 28.2°C—over a degree higher than the previous day. Warm night conditions may persist, reducing the body’s ability to recover from daytime heat.
Forecast: Thunderstorms and Continued Heat
From June 13 to 15, thunderstorms, lightning, and gusty winds up to 50 kmph are expected in isolated areas. Until then, dry weather will dominate, offering little relief. Delhi also faces extreme heat, with temperatures reaching 45.5°C at certain locations and a “feels-like” heat index of 49°C due to humidity.
Authorities urge residents to stay hydrated, avoid direct sun exposure, and take precautions against heat-related illnesses. IMD defines a heatwave when temperatures exceed 40°C for two consecutive days across multiple stations, or when deviations from normal readings surpass 6.4°C for severe cases.
Call for Urgent Heat Action Plans
Dr. Vishwas Chitale of CEEW warns that over 57% of Indian districts face high heat risk due to rising hot days, warm nights, and increased humidity. Shrinking gaps between day and night temperatures worsen health risks. Experts stress the urgent need for localized Heat Action Plans to protect lives and livelihoods in cities across India.
Source: times of india