Scorching Temperatures in Delhi: Coping with the Intense Heatwave

Northern India, including the bustling capital Delhi, is currently in the grips of an intense heatwave, with temperatures soaring above 45°C during the weekend.

On Sunday, the Najafgarh district in Delhi recorded a scorching temperature of 47.8°C, marking it as the highest temperature recorded in the country this season so far.

According to the weather department, this heatwave is expected to persist throughout the week.

This blistering heatwave coincides with India’s ongoing general election, the results of which are set to be declared on June 4th.

Summers in India, which typically span from March to September, are known for their sweltering heat and humidity.

The Indian Meteorological Department (IMD) has warned that the country might experience more prolonged and intense heatwaves this year.

Over the weekend, temperatures soared above 45°C in 10 locations within the National Capital Region (NCR), encompassing Delhi and adjacent districts from Uttar Pradesh, Haryana, and Rajasthan.

The IMD forecasts that maximum temperatures in Delhi and other northern cities will hover around 45-46°C on Monday and Tuesday.

Additionally, a new heatwave is predicted to sweep across parts of western and central India in the coming days.

Amidst this heatwave, several Indian states are also heading to the polls this week.

On Monday, millions of voters will cast their ballots in Maharashtra, Uttar Pradesh, and Bihar, while Delhi is scheduled to vote on May 25th.

These elections, conducted in seven phases from April 19th to June 1st, are crucial for the country’s political landscape.

Many voters have expressed discomfort about braving the extreme heat while waiting in long queues, particularly for elderly citizens.

To mitigate these challenges, India’s election authorities have extended voting hours and urged people to take precautions against the heat when heading out to vote.

Summers have always been challenging in many parts of India, especially in the northern and central regions.

While some people rely on air-conditioners and water coolers for relief, others, especially in rural areas, have devised their own methods to beat the heat, such as storing water in earthen pots or consuming beverages made from raw mango pulp to prevent heat-related illnesses.