City sizzles at 44.6 degree Celsius, heatwave to intensify in next few days

Kanpur: The city recorded its highest temperature of the current summer season on Monday as excessive hot climatic conditions baffled the citizens across the city. The mercury touched 44.6 degree Celsius at the Air Force observatory while the CSA weather observatory recorded maximum temperature at 43.2 degree Celsius.

As predicted by the India Meteorological Department (IMD), which had already issued a yellow alert, the rising trend of mercury started from around 9 am. and reached its peak during noon hours. The scorching sunshine coupled with dry winds made outdoor conditions extremely uncomfortable for the residents.

At around 2 pm, the heat index was at its peak and gave an impact of nearly 46 to 47 degrees Celsius, creating extremely risky conditions and forcing citizens to avoid strenuous outdoor activities. Roads and market areas witnessed thin movement during afternoon hours as people preferred to remain indoors.

Similarly, the maximum UV index was recorded between 10 and 12, which falls in the “extreme” category. According to experts, exposure to midday sunlight without protection can be harmful to the skin and may cause sunburn.

The maximum relative humidity was recorded at 39 per cent, indicating dry weather conditions in the city. North-westerly winds blew at a speed ranging between 6.2 kmph and 14.3 kmph, further intensifying the heatwave-like conditions and giving residents a feel of excessive hot climatic conditions.

According to the weather forecast issued by the India Meteorological Department, dry weather accompanied by bright sunshine is expected to continue in Kanpur division on Tuesday as well. A gradual rise in daytime temperatures is likely to persist throughout the week and heatwave conditions may intensify further in the coming days.

Dr S Sunil Pandey, weather expert of CSA University, talking to TOI stated that there was no immediate relief expected as all possibilities of further rise in temperature remained strong. He strongly advised citizens to avoid outdoor activities during daytime, especially between 11 am and 4 pm.

“If there is any emergency then people must take all necessary precautions before stepping out,” he added.