Unseasonably High Temperatures Recorded in Northwest India: Alerts Issued
Northwest India is experiencing unusually high temperatures with alerts issued for heat illnesses. The IMD notes that relief is expected from thunderstorms later this week. Currently, several regions report temperatures significantly above normal, raising concerns for vulnerable populations. Upcoming changes in weather patterns may bring relief from heat wave conditions.
Unseasonably high daytime and nighttime temperatures have been observed across northwest India on Tuesday and Wednesday, according to the Indian Meteorological Department (IMD). While some relief is anticipated later in the week due to thunderstorm activity expected on Friday and Saturday, agencies are on alert due to the increased risk of heat illnesses. Orange and yellow alerts have been issued for Thursday, particularly concerning vulnerable populations such as the elderly, infants, and those with chronic illnesses.
The IMD reported that heat wave conditions were present in several areas: western and eastern Rajasthan, Saurashtra, Kutch, and isolated pockets of Punjab, Delhi, Haryana, Madhya Pradesh, and western Uttar Pradesh. Night temperatures also remained elevated in parts of southern Haryana, Delhi, Rajasthan, and other areas. Specifically, at Safdarjung in Delhi, the temperature peaked at 41°C, exceeding the average by 5.9 degrees, while the minimum temperature reached 25.6°C, which is 5.6 degrees above normal.
Looking ahead, the IMD predicts that heat wave conditions may return to Punjab, Haryana, and Delhi starting April 15, following a brief respite from the heat after the slated thunderstorms. Many regions in Rajasthan, Gujarat, and neighboring states have recorded maximum temperatures ranging from 4 to 7 degrees above normal.
Meteorologist Mahesh Palawat from Skymet Weather noted that such extreme temperatures are typical for late April or May, and attributed the current heat to increased humidity and changes in wind patterns. Thunderstorm activity is expected to result from a western disturbance combined with cyclonic circulation over central Pakistan.
IMD Director General M. Mohapatra indicated that an anti-cyclone over Saurashtra is causing the extreme heat, but relief is expected as it shifts toward the Arabian Sea around April 10-11. The upcoming weather changes, fueled by a western disturbance, may lead to light rainfall and cloudy conditions in northern regions, including Delhi, reducing heat wave intensity.
In the coming days, thunderstorms, gusty winds, and potential hailstorms are predicted, significantly impacting the heat wave conditions. Rainfall is also expected in Jammu and Kashmir, with possible isolated dust storms in western Rajasthan until Friday. The forecast highlights scattered to moderate rainfall across northern states with thunderstorms likely continuing through Friday.
The recent surge in temperatures across northwest India has led to increased alerts for potential heat illnesses and severe weather conditions. Although immediate relief is expected from upcoming thunderstorm activity, heat wave conditions are likely to persist in various regions. The IMD indicates ongoing monitoring and preparedness by agencies is crucial as weather patterns transition in the following days, promising cooler temperatures and precipitation.
Original Source: www.hindustantimes.com
