IMD warns of prolonged heatwave in North India, Delhi sizzles at 49 degrees

Weather Update: The Indian Meteorological Department (IMD) issues a grim prognosis as the skies in North India blaze with intense heat. Across the region, temperatures soar, breaching the 50-degree mark in some areas. Even the nation's capital, Delhi, swelters under the oppressive heat, with mercury levels surpassing 49 degrees in many locales. IMD warns that this scorching trend is likely to persist into the following month, amplifying the ordeal of a relentless heatwave throughout June, particularly in North Indian states such as Delhi, Punjab, Rajasthan, Haryana, and Uttar Pradesh.

Churu, Rajasthan: The Heatwave epicenter

On May 28th, Churu in Rajasthan claimed the title of the hottest city in the country, registering a blistering 50.5 degrees Celsius. Following closely, Sirsa in Haryana simmered at 50.3 degrees Celsius, with Delhi securing the third spot as temperatures nudged close to the 50-degree mark. Narela and Mungeshpur in Delhi recorded highs of 49.9 degrees Celsius, with Najafgarh trailing closely at 49.8 degrees Celsius and Pitampura at 48.5 degrees Celsius.

Heatwave across the Nation

The scorching temperatures weren't limited to Rajasthan and Delhi. In Uttar Pradesh, Jhansi emerged as the hottest city with temperatures soaring to 49 degrees Celsius. Agra, known for the iconic Taj Mahal, experienced sweltering conditions at 48.6 degrees Celsius, while Prayagraj recorded 48.2 degrees Celsius. Varanasi, Fatehpur, Orai, and Kanpur also sizzled with temperatures crossing the 47-degree mark. Meanwhile, in Madhya Pradesh, Prithvipur Niwari witnessed temperatures climbing to 48.5 degrees Celsius, while Bhatinda in Punjab recorded 47.2 degrees Celsius.

Foreboding outlook for June

The IMD paints a bleak picture for the coming days, warning of persistently high temperatures across the country. June is expected to see above-normal temperatures in most regions, coupled with a surge in humidity in areas including Delhi, Western Uttar Pradesh, Haryana, Punjab, and Rajasthan. Moreover, the likelihood of intensified heatwaves looms over several states, including Rajasthan, Punjab, Haryana, Uttar Pradesh, Gujarat, and Northern Madhya Pradesh. As the mercury continues to rise, the populace braces itself for the relentless onslaught of a scorching summer.