Heatwave conditions affecting Varanasi and eastern Uttar Pradesh may weaken in the coming days, with the Meteorological Department indicating increased pre-monsoon activity and cloud movement likely to provide some relief during Nautapa.
Varanasi and several districts in eastern Uttar Pradesh are currently experiencing intense sunlight and hot winds, with temperatures rising from the morning and heatwave-like conditions intensifying by the afternoon. However, the Meteorological Department has estimated that these conditions may not persist for long, with weather patterns expected to begin changing after the next three days as cloud activity increases.
According to weather experts, humidity levels in the air remain low at present, but easterly winds are expected to strengthen soon. This may restore moisture levels in the atmosphere and support pre-monsoon activity. The expected change is likely to reduce the intensity of the heat in the coming days.
The Meteorological Department has issued a red alert for the first day of Nautapa, followed by the possibility of an orange alert over the next two days. However, the department stated that weather conditions may change thereafter, with increased cloud movement expected.
While Nautapa is generally associated with severe heat and continuous heatwave conditions, weather patterns this time appear to be slightly different. Activation of the pre-monsoon system may lead to a slight drop in temperature. Cloud cover and light winds are also expected in some areas.
Experts said further weather changes may be observed by the last week of May. If atmospheric moisture continues to rise, pre-monsoon activity may strengthen further by early June.
During the past 24 hours, Varanasi recorded a maximum temperature of 43.5 degrees Celsius, approximately 2.5 degrees above normal, while the minimum temperature stood at 26.4 degrees Celsius. Humidity levels remained between 18 and 27 percent, contributing to ber heat conditions during the daytime.
On Monday morning, the impact of hot winds appeared lower for a brief period, but as the day progressed, intense sunlight and hot winds increased difficulties for residents. Roads appeared largely empty by afternoon, with people stepping outside only for essential work.
The Meteorological Department stated that heatwave conditions currently persist, but relief may be possible in the coming days due to increased cloud activity and changing wind direction. Following Nautapa, pre-monsoon conditions in eastern Uttar Pradesh are expected to become more active, which may gradually reduce temperatures and ease intense heat.
