Record-breaking heatwave grips India, temperatures cross 50°C

Large parts of northern and central India are experiencing extreme heatwave conditions, with temperatures surpassing 50 degrees Celsius in some regions. Rajasthan's Churu and Haryana's Sirsa have recorded temperatures crossing this mark, while Delhi has seen temperatures settle nine notches above normal. The IMD has issued severe heatwave warnings, highlighting the health risks and potential water shortages in affected areas. (Picture credit: AFP)

Delhi has hit a record high temperature of 49.9 degrees Celsius, the highest ever recorded in the capital. This extreme heat has prompted authorities to warn of water shortages and issue red alert warnings, advising the city's over 30 million residents to take extreme care. The IMD has reported temperatures in Delhi's suburbs, Narela and Mungeshpur, at 49.9 degrees Celsius, significantly above normal for this time of year. (Picture credit: Reuters)

Daltonganj in Jharkhand has recorded its highest temperature in ten years at 47.5 degrees Celsius. This extreme heatwave has severely affected the Palamu and Garhwa districts, with the IMD reporting conditions not seen in the region for decades. The last time temperatures were this high was in 1978, making this an extraordinary event for the area. (Picture credit: AFP)

Heatwave conditions have returned to Odisha, with several regions recording temperatures exceeding 45 degrees Celsius. Boudh, the hottest place in Odisha on the day, recorded a maximum temperature of 45.9 degrees Celsius. Other regions, including Sonepur and Titlagarh, also faced similar extreme conditions, prompting the IMD to issue heatwave warnings and advise precautions. (Picture credit: Reuters)

In response to the scorching summer heat, Raipur's Jungle Safari has implemented special measures to protect its animals. These include covering enclosures with green nets, improving cooling systems, and providing water-rich foods. Continuous monitoring ensures the animals' well-being, highlighting the safari's proactive approach to mitigating the impact of extreme heat. (Picture credit: AFP)

Churu has recorded a maximum temperature of 50.5 degrees Celsius, as severe heatwave conditions persist across the state. The IMD has noted that several parts of Rajasthan are experiencing temperatures well above normal, with potential light rain expected to bring slight relief in the coming days. This marks one of the highest temperatures recorded in the region this season. (Picture credit: AFP)

In response to the extreme heatwave, Delhi's Lt Governor has mandated a paid break for construction labourers from 12 noon to 3 pm. This measure, aimed at protecting workers from the severe heat, includes provisions for water and coconut water at construction sites. The directive is part of a broader effort to ensure the health and safety of labourers during the ongoing heatwave. (Picture credit: Reuters)

In Sheikhpura, Bihar, at least 50 students fainted due to extreme heatwave conditions. The incident occurred at Mankaul Middle School, where temperatures soared between 40 and 45 degrees Celsius. The students lost consciousness after attending a morning assembly and were subsequently rushed to the hospital. This incident highlights the severe impact of the heatwave on vulnerable populations, particularly children, and raises concerns about the responsiveness of local health services. (Picture credit: AFP)

Prevailing heat wave to severe heat wave conditions over Northwest & Central India are likely to reduce gradually from tomorrow (May 30). The conditions continue to become favourable for Monsoon onset over Kerala during next 24 hours and advance of monsoon over some parts of Northeastern States during the same period. (Picture credit: Reuters)