People use newspapers and umbrellas to protect themselves from the heat as they wait to vote outside a polling station

The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued a red alert for several regions in North India, predicting the heatwave to persist for the next five days. In addition to Delhi, states such as Odisha and West Bengal are also witnessing severe heat conditions, leading to school closures and advisories for residents to stay hydrated and avoid prolonged sun exposure.

In Odisha, temperatures have soared past 43°C, prompting the state government to close schools from April 18 to 20. The IMD has issued a Yellow Alert for various districts, predicting temperatures to rise above 45°C in some areas. Similar conditions are affecting West Bengal, where temperatures are expected to exceed 40°C in several southern districts, leading to advisories for people to avoid outdoor activities during peak hours.

Authorities across affected states are implementing measures to mitigate the impact of the heatwave. The IMD forecasts that while temperatures in Delhi might peak at 38°C on April 18, a brief respite is expected with light rains likely to bring down the temperature to 34°C on April 19. However, the overall heatwave conditions are expected to persist, necessitating continued precautions.

The extreme weather has led to various government interventions, including the early closure of schools, issuance of health advisories, and preparation for emergency services. Public health officials are advising residents to remain indoors during the hottest parts of the day, stay hydrated, and wear light clothing. These measures aim to prevent heat-related illnesses and ensure public safety during this challenging period.

As India grapples with severe heatwave conditions, the combined efforts of government authorities and public compliance with health advisories are crucial in mitigating the adverse effects. The situation underscores the importance of preparedness and adaptive measures in response to extreme weather events, which are becoming increasingly frequent due to climate change.

Ngoc Huyen (ChannelNewsAsia, India Today)