SUNDAY, JUNE 16, 2024
Team Herald
The India Meteorological Department (IMD) on Tuesday predicted heatwave to severe heatwave conditions to prevail over parts of Rajasthan, Punjab, Haryana-Chandigarh-Delhi, and West Uttar Pradesh as it issued a 'red alert' for the northern states over the next five days. The Met Department said maximum daytime temperatures in several districts of these states may breach the 47°C mark.
The temperatures are currently above normal across North West India and a red alert warning for the region over the past 2-3 days. The maximum temperature is likely to inch further up from 45°C and settle at 47°C. Punjab and Haryana, have registered a marginal drop in maximum temperatures due to a prevailing western disturbance, but a gradual increase in temperature is predicted by 2 to 3 degrees. Uttar Pradesh has already been issued a red alert warning for the next five days and an orange alert for northern parts of Madhya Pradesh.
However, while the North bakes under an unrelenting summer sun, a measure of respite is likely down South. As per the senior IMD scientist, heavy to very heavy rains, up to 12 cm, are likely in Tamil Nadu and Kerala over the next 2-3 days.
With the IMD coming out with a 'red alert' for the national capital and other parts of North India, health experts warned people against stepping outdoors, especially between 11 am and 4 pm, as it could lead to a downturn in their health.
The Ministry of Health & Family Welfare, Government of India has issued the symptoms of heatwave illness: fainting, weakness, dizziness, nausea, vomiting, increased sweating and thirst, muscle cramps, and body temperature rising to 40.5 degrees Celsius or higher. According to the advisory, any individual with these symptoms should immediately visit the nearest hospital or health centre.
