Weather Update: IMD Issues Orange Alert as Intense Heatwave Grips North India; Mercury to Cross 45°C

A massive heatwave is sweeping across parts of North India this week, and things are only expected to get worse as the India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued heatwave alerts for several regions, including Punjab, Haryana, Delhi-NCR, Rajasthan, and Chhattisgarh. Temperatures are rising dangerously, crossing 45°C in many places, and authorities are urging people to take all necessary precautions.

Punjab and Haryana: Orange Alert Issued From June 9 to 11

People living in southern and western parts of Punjab and Haryana should prepare themselves for extreme heat. The IMD has issued an orange alert, which means there's a significant risk to health due to the heatwave. The temperature is expected to range between 43°C and 46°C, with Bathinda already hitting 42.6°C on June 8. Meteorologists warn that it could get even hotter in the next few days.

Nights won't bring much relief either, as night temperatures will also remain high. IMD advises people to stay indoors during peak sun hours, drink lots of water, wear light cotton clothes, and watch for symptoms of heat-related illness like headache, dizziness etc.

Delhi-NCR: Yellow Alert Issued, Temperature May Touch 45°C

Delhi has officially entered heatwave territory again. On June 8, the capital's Safdarjung station recorded a scorching 42.1°C, which is 2°C above normal for this time of the year. A yellow alert is now in effect for June 9 and 10, with temperatures expected to rise up to 45°C. Some parts of the Delhi region are even hotter, like Noida & Faridabad, which recorded over 41°C.

Rajasthan: Loo Winds Expected Mercury Hits 47°C

Rajasthan is facing the worst of the heat this year as eleven districts are reeling under severe loo winds (hot and dry winds), and temperatures have already crossed 47°C. The IMD has warned that this heat will continue for the next few days, with no immediate relief in sight. In Bikaner, the maximum temperature recorded was 46.0°C; in Barmer, 45.9°C; in Churu, 45.6°C; in Jaisalmer, 45.2°C; and in Kota, 45.0°C. IMD has asked residents to avoid going out during the afternoon, stay covered with hats or scarves, drink water frequently, and be alert to symptoms of heatstroke.

Chhattisgarh: Record Early-June Heat Temp May Hit 44°C

Chhattisgarh is also facing unusually high temperatures for early June. The mercury is expected to rise up to 44°C in the next 48 hours. Although there is some hope of pre-monsoon showers in a few days, the current heat conditions are worrying and have triggered statewide alerts.

IMD's Health Advisory for This Extreme Heat

To protect yourself and your loved ones from heat-related health risks, follow these simple tips:

• Drink plenty of water and stay hydrated.
• Avoid going out between 12 noon and 4 PM.
• Wear light, cotton clothes and cover your head.
• Be aware of symptoms like dizziness, excessive sweating, and cramps.
• Check on elderly people, children, and outdoor workers regularly.
• Never leave kids or pets inside parked vehicles.