IMD issues ‘Orange’ alert for heatwave across Central India: What travellers need to know before planning trips

In a current update, the India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued orange alerts for several states across the country for severe heatwaves. The department has warned that heatwave conditions are likely to persist across central India till month-end. The weather agency’s latest bulletins and official updates on X indicate that temperatures across several cities are expected to remain above normal, with some regions crossing the dangerous 45°C mark.India Meteorological Department on X posted:“Severe heat wave conditions likely over parts of East MP, East UP & Vidarbha, with heat wave alerts across Bihar, Rajasthan, Telangana, Jharkhand, Odisha, Chhattisgarh and more. Warm nights and hot-humid conditions will add to the discomfort in several regions.Stay hydrated 💧Avoid peak afternoon exposure ☀️Take care of children, elderly & pets 🐾”According to the IMD’s official heatwave bulletin, severe heatwave conditions are likely to continue between May 24 and May 29. These conditions are expected in isolated to many pockets across northwest and central India.The department also stated that the temperatures are expected to remain “appreciably above normal,” with departures of 3°C to 5°C above seasonal averages. It also added that there is a “high likelihood of heat illness symptoms” for those exposed to direct sunlight for prolonged time. Kids, infants, elderly people, and those with chronic illnesses should avoid going out in the sun.The weather agency also confirmed that temperatures in several regions of central India, adjoining Uttar Pradesh, Haryana, and among others have already reached 45°C to 47°C. What it means for travellersFor travellers, this means extra precaution, high SPF, and other summer essentials. The heatwave could affect summer travel plans across central and north India including in Delhi, Jaipur, Lucknow, Nagpur, Bhopal, Prayagraj, and to name a few. All these cities are dotted with iconic tourist attractions. However, harsh daytime conditions can make outdoor sightseeing difficult during afternoon hours. Popular destinations including Jaipur, Agra, and Khajuraho may see reduced tourist activity as daytime temperatures soar.Advisory for travellersAvoid direct heat exposure between 12 PM and 4 PMStay hydratedWear light cotton clothingAvoid strenuous outdoor activityPlan early morning tripsKeep monitoring the weather updatesCarry oral hydration solutionsHats, sunscreens, umbrellasWith the heatwave expected to continue till the end of May, travel experts are advising tourists to avoid unnecessary daytime exposure.