Western disturbances alert: Light rains, strong winds across India from April 28, slight respite from scorching heat
Delhi recorded a maximum temperature of 42.1°C on Sunday, which was 3.1 degrees above normal, while the Ridge area saw the highest at 43.5°C.
PTC News Desk: Northern states continued to face intense heatwave conditions on Sunday, with temperatures close to 45°C in Rajasthan, Uttar Pradesh, and Punjab. Some relief is likely from April 28, as rain and thunderstorms caused by a western disturbance are expected. The India Meteorological Department (IMD) said the heat will continue for the next few days and advised people to avoid staying out in the sun for long periods.
Due to the rising heat, India’s peak power demand reached a record 256.11 GW on Saturday, driven by increased use of cooling appliances like air conditioners and coolers, according to power ministry data. This surpassed the previous record of 252.07 GW set just a day earlier on Friday.
Delhi recorded a maximum temperature of 42.1°C on Sunday, which was 3.1 degrees above normal, while the Ridge area saw the highest at 43.5°C. A yellow alert has been issued for Monday, with temperatures expected to touch around 44°C.
Chief Minister Rekha Gupta announced steps to tackle the heat, including cool roofs, misting systems at bus stops, ORS for schoolchildren, support for construction workers, and care for animals and birds. She also instructed power companies to ensure no power cuts, especially for essential services like hospitals, water plants, and mobile towers.
In Uttar Pradesh, several areas experienced heatwave conditions, with Banda recording the highest temperature at 46.6°C. Meanwhile, Haryana and Punjab also remained extremely hot, with Narnaul at 44.2°C and Bathinda at 43.7°C being the hottest places in the two states.