Rajasthan Faces Severe Heatwave; Is on High Alert; Delhi Feels 44°C

The Meteorological Department has forecasted severe heatwave conditions in several regions, including Punjab, Haryana-Chandigarh-Delhi, West Rajasthan, parts of East Rajasthan, West Uttar Pradesh, and West Madhya Pradesh on May 21.

In response to these extreme heat conditions, the health department of Rajasthan is on high alert, implementing measures to provide relief to heatwave-affected patients. Dr. Ravi Prakash, Director of the Rajasthan Health Department, stated, “In view of the severe heatwave and upon receiving an alert from the Central Government, we have trained our 570 medical officers accordingly.”

He further explained, “The Regional Meteorological Department alerts us in advance about weather conditions. We have prepared for districts with red, orange, and yellow alerts. Efforts are being made to provide proper treatment to patients suffering from heatstroke. Additionally, all guidelines have been sent to district officials. The Health Department of Rajasthan has made sufficient arrangements.”

The India Meteorological Department (IMD), a premier weather forecasting agency, has indicated no immediate relief from the scorching heatwave, issuing a red alert for Delhi, Haryana, Punjab, and Chandigarh, indicating the heatwave will persist for several days. The IMD also forecasted heatwave conditions in Rajasthan, Bihar, Uttar Pradesh, Odisha, Gujarat, Himachal Pradesh, Madhya Pradesh, Saurashtra, and Kutch.

Temperatures have been reported to be above normal by 5.1 degrees or more in many places, including Delhi, Haryana, Chandigarh, Assam, Meghalaya, and Bihar. An area is considered to be experiencing a heatwave if the maximum temperature at a weather station reaches at least 40°C, and at least 30°C or more in hilly regions.

In response to the ongoing heatwave, the IMD has advised the public to stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water, even if not thirsty, and consuming ORS and homemade drinks like lassi, Torani (rice water), lemon water, and buttermilk. They also recommend avoiding heat exposure, covering the head with a hat or umbrella, and wearing light-colored, loose, and cotton clothes to stay safe.