City sizzles at 43.3°C; no respite in sight, predicts IMD

Kanpur: Residents continued to reel under intense heatwave conditions on Wednesday despite a marginal dip in temperature, with little relief from the scorching weather.According to the weather observatory at CSA University, the maximum temperature was recorded at 43.3 degrees Celsius, slightly lower than Tuesday’s 43.9 degrees Celsius.However, the minimum temperature rose to 28.8 degrees Celsius, making the nights hot and uncomfortable.The drop in relative humidity led to a sharp and unbearable dry heat across the city.North-westerly winds blowing at speeds ranging between 7.9 kmph and 9.2 kmph intensified the heatwave conditions, particularly during the afternoon hours.The impact of the heatwave began as early as 9.30 am, prompting office-goers and traders to complete their travel and market activities by 10.30 am to avoid exposure to the severe heat.Meanwhile, the India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued an orange alert for the coming days, warning residents to remain prepared for intense heatwave conditions.According to the forecast, severe heatwave conditions are expected to persist across all districts of the Kanpur division over the next 24 hours.There is also a possibility of dust storms, thunderstorms, light drizzle, and scattered rainfall in the following days.Weather experts said that changes in weather conditions are likely within the next 24 to 48 hours due to moisture-laden winds arriving from the Bay of Bengal.Strong sunshine and dry westerly winds are expected during the daytime, while partly cloudy skies accompanied by gusty winds carrying dust at speeds of 30 to 40 kmph may develop during the late evening or night.In Kanpur Nagar, daytime temperatures may touch 44 to 45 degrees Celsius, while night temperatures are likely to remain between 30 and 31 degrees Celsius.Similar conditions are expected in Kanpur Dehat, where heatwave intensity is likely to be stronger in rural areas. Experts have predicted up to a 30 per cent chance of dust storms during the evening hours.The heat index in Kanpur was estimated at around 46 degrees Celsius, creating extremely hot and dangerous conditions.