Heatwave conditions intensified across multiple regions of India, with temperatures exceeding 44°C in several cities, prompting administrative measures including school schedule changes, closures, and alerts.
Temperatures Cross 44°C in Multiple Cities
Several cities in Rajasthan, Uttar Pradesh and Maharashtra recorded high temperatures on Thursday. Sri Ganganagar registered 44.5°C, while Prayagraj and Amravati recorded 44.4°C each, and Akola recorded 44.3°C.
School Timings Revised and Closures Announced
Authorities implemented changes in school operations in response to the heat. In Rajasthan cities including Jaipur, Kota, Chittorgarh, Jaisalmer and Dausa, school timings were shifted to 7:30 am.
In Odisha, schools and colleges in districts such as Cuttack, Rayagada, Jharsuguda and Ganjam were temporarily closed, with holidays extended from April 26 to April 27.
Work Hours Adjusted for Labourers
In Rajasthan districts including Bikaner, Jhunjhunu and Jaisalmer, working hours for labourers under government schemes were revised. Workers are now permitted to work from 6:00 am to 1:00 pm to avoid peak afternoon heat.
Heatwave Fatality Reported in Kerala
In Kannur, Kerala, one death due to heatstroke was reported, marking the first such incident of the season. Health authorities advised residents to avoid outdoor exposure during daytime hours.
Odisha Reports Widespread Heat Impact
In Odisha, temperatures reached 44°C in Jharsuguda and Talcher, while more than 24 locations recorded temperatures above 40°C. Authorities initiated precautionary measures in the health and education sectors.
Weather Forecast for Next 48 Hours
According to the meteorological department, heatwave conditions are expected to persist:
April 25: Heatwave likely in Delhi, Rajasthan, Uttar Pradesh, Madhya Pradesh, Haryana and Punjab; hot and humid conditions expected in Gujarat, Tamil Nadu and West Bengal.
April 26: Continued heatwave conditions forecast for Bihar, Maharashtra, Rajasthan, Delhi and Uttar Pradesh, with the possibility of “warm night” conditions in some areas.
Health Advisory Issued
Experts cautioned that extreme heat may lead to heatstroke, dehydration and fatigue. Children, elderly individuals and outdoor workers were identified as vulnerable groups requiring precautionary measures.
