The weather department is forced to issue a red alert that will last for five days due to the scorching hot wave in Delhi, where the temperature can go up to 47 degrees Celsius or more. The high temperatures recorded have caused power demand in the city to hit a record peak for May, raising fears of potential power blackouts.
There is the potential for heatwave to severe heatwave conditions in the capital territory on Monday,” stated India Meteorological Department (IMD) officials as they announced that Najafgarh would experience its most intense period yet when temperatures breach 47.4 degrees Celsius while Saturday saw over 44.4 degrees Celsius which is all-time high for this spring.
The crippling heat is impacting all sections of society.Those who will have to go out for work or shopping, for instance, do not find the sunny hot weather easy.Low-income residents who frequently do not have access to proper cooling and water are particularly at risk
Schools Ordered to Close, Power Demand at Record High
The Delhi government has taken swift action, directing all schools that haven’t already closed for summer vacation to shut down immediately. This directive aims to protect students from the extreme heat.
Aside from that, the high temperatures have also greatly increased power usage. On Monday, May 31, Delhi saw its biggest ever peak season electricity use hitting 7,572 MW overpowering 7,438 MW in August last year.
The scorching heat isn’t just affecting humans. The Delhi Zoo has implemented measures to keep animals cool, including providing water coolers, straw shelters, fruit ice balls, and water showers.
IMD Issues Heatwave Warnings and Offers Safety Tips
The IMD’s seven-day prediction alerts on “extremely careful for the most vulnerable people” following the heatwave. For residents not to be exposed to heat, they should drink more fluids in order to keep off dehydration as well as taking extreme caution in order to avoid heatstroke.
The IMD suggests consuming sufficient water, oral rehydration solution (ORS), or homemade cooling drinks like lassi, rice water, lemon water, and buttermilk to stay hydrated.
Also Read: Chandigarh Schools Adapt To Heatwave, Implement Early Dismissal
What is a Heatwave?
According to IMD a heatwave occurs when the maximum temperature has touched 40 degrees Celsius in plain areas, 37 degrees Celsius in coastal areas and 30 degrees Celsius in Hilly areas as well showing a departure from normal temperature of atleast 4.5 degrees Celsius while a “severe heatwave” is declared if it’s departure from normal temperature is above 6.4 degrees Celsius.
With the relative humidity oscillating at 43% to 23% throughout the day, it will be challenging for Delhi in the next few days. Heedfully listen out for IMD warnings; stay safe by following preventive measures against the intense heat.
