Heat peaks in city, sizzling spell to continue

Lucknow: State capital recorded hottest day of the season on Thursday with maximum temperature touching 43.6 degrees Celsius amid heatwave conditions across UP. Sharp rise in temperature forced many residents to remain indoors during afternoon hours as hot winds swept through the city.Major roads and marketplaces witnessed thin crowds during peak daytime hours. People venturing outdoors covered their faces with scarves, caps and cloth pieces, while many used umbrellas to shield themselves from direct sunlight. Street vendors, delivery workers, rickshaw pullers and traffic personnel were among those affected most by the intense heat.According to India Meteorological Department (IMD), clear skies and dry weather conditions contributed to the sharp increase in daytime temperatures. Strong surface winds further intensified hot conditions across the state capital. Weather office said warm night conditions also persisted, offering little relief to residents even after sunset.A senior scientist at IMD, Lucknow, Mohammad Danish, said maximum temperatures are likely to remain high, potentially reaching around 45 degrees with a minimum around 29 degrees in the city over the next few days. Heatwave conditions are expected to continue in several districts of UP. The department has forecast strong daytime winds with speeds ranging between 20 and 30 kmph in some areas.Hospitals and health experts advised people to avoid stepping out during afternoon hours unless necessary. Doctors recommended drinking adequate water, wearing light cotton clothes and avoiding prolonged exposure to sunlight to prevent dehydration and heatstroke.Prolonged spell of heat also affected routine activity in the city. Several roadside tea stalls and eateries reported lower footfall in the afternoon, while public parks and open spaces remained largely empty.With temperatures remaining above normal levels, residents are expected to face continued heat stress in the days to come.