New Delhi: The scorching summer seems to be at its peak as the mercury touched 47 degree Celsius in various parts of the Delhi NCR region today. Meanwhile, the India Meteorological Department has advised people to take precautions against the heat wave. “Heat wave to severe heat wave” warnings have already been issued by the India Meteorological Department (IMD) for Uttar Pradesh, Haryana, Rajasthan, Gujarat, Madhya Pradesh and Delhi.
"Today has been the hottest day of the season, Rajasthan is facing intense heat. Punjab, Haryana, Delhi, Rajasthan, Gujarat, MP, south of UP, Vidarbha are facing maximum heat wave," said IMD Director BP Yadav.
"Red warning has been issued, it is the highest order warning for heat wave to severe heat wave. This intense heat wave will continue for next 2-3 days in North, West and Central India," he further added.
According to private weather forecasters, the temperature in Palam and Noida soared to 47 degrees Celsius on Wednesday. The heat is mostly attributed to dry winds from the northwest.
Earlier, US National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) had reported that April was the hottest month globally on record. Delhi seems to be affected equally as the city is witnessing higher temperatures than usual.
In the coming few days, temperatures could cross 45-47 degree Celsius in northern and northwestern parts of the country before the onset of monsoon down south.
Although no official figures of deaths caused due to scorching summer are available, the rising temperatures coupled with drought seem to have killed around 300 people throughout the country.
(With IANS inputs)
