Parts of northwest India are sweltering under scorching temperatures, prompting a severe weather alert in the capital, New Delhi. The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has forecasted that heat wave conditions will persist across the northern region for the coming days, with several states on high alert. On Friday, New Delhi recorded temperatures as high as 47.1 degrees Celsius, with nearby states like Punjab, Haryana, and Rajasthan also experiencing extreme heat.
The extreme temperatures coincide with a six-week-long general election, raising concerns about increased health risks as people wait in long lines to vote or candidates campaign outdoors. Last month, a minister fainted due to heat while addressing an election rally in Maharashtra state. Residents and workers in the capital are feeling the brunt of the heat wave. Satish Kumar, a 57-year-old rickshaw driver, noted that his work is suffering because people are avoiding going outside, leaving markets nearly empty.
IMD scientist Soma Sen Roy advised people to avoid going outdoors during the afternoon, stay hydrated, and wear loose-fitting clothing. Vulnerable groups, particularly the elderly, are urged to stay indoors to minimize health risks. Pravin Kamath, a 28-year-old cold drink vendor, lamented the challenging conditions, stating that he must work despite the unbearable heat.
A study by World Weather Attribution found that the searing heat wave in April that hit parts of Asia was made at least 45 times more likely in some areas by climate change. As climate change continues to impact weather patterns, the frequency and intensity of heat waves are expected to rise, posing significant challenges for the region.
The extreme temperatures coincide with a six-week-long general election, raising concerns about increased health risks as people wait in long lines to vote or candidates campaign outdoors. Last month, a minister fainted due to heat while addressing an election rally in Maharashtra state. Residents and workers in the capital are feeling the brunt of the heat wave. Satish Kumar, a 57-year-old rickshaw driver, noted that his work is suffering because people are avoiding going outside, leaving markets nearly empty.
IMD scientist Soma Sen Roy advised people to avoid going outdoors during the afternoon, stay hydrated, and wear loose-fitting clothing. Vulnerable groups, particularly the elderly, are urged to stay indoors to minimize health risks. Pravin Kamath, a 28-year-old cold drink vendor, lamented the challenging conditions, stating that he must work despite the unbearable heat.
A study by World Weather Attribution found that the searing heat wave in April that hit parts of Asia was made at least 45 times more likely in some areas by climate change. As climate change continues to impact weather patterns, the frequency and intensity of heat waves are expected to rise, posing significant challenges for the region.
