Season’s Hottest Day In Delhi, ‘Fire Test’ Starts Now; What’s Fueling The Heat Dome Effect?

New Delhi: With the beginning of the last week of April, heat has shown itself in large parts of the country. From North India to Central and Eastern areas, the sun is so strong that it has become difficult to go out during the day. The Meteorological Department has clearly indicated that this is just the beginning, the real heat is about to increase.

How was the situation in Delhi?

The hottest day of this season was recorded in Delhi on Thursday. In some areas the temperature reached 43 degrees, which is much higher than normal. In other parts also the temperature remained around 41 degrees. Its effect was clearly visible—the streets looked almost empty in the afternoon.

Which cities have the hottest heat?

This heat is not limited to Delhi only. The temperature went above 43 degrees in 24 cities of the country. Sriganganagar in Rajasthan was the hottest, where the mercury reached 44.5 degrees. Prayagraj and Amravati also remained at almost the same level.

Which states are at risk of heat wave?

The Meteorological Department has warned of heatwave in many states for the next few days. Heat wave may last for 4-5 days in North-West and Central India, while in the eastern states also the heat is expected to remain intense for the next 2-3 days. Bihar, UP, Rajasthan and Madhya Pradesh will be especially affected.

Can relief be found anywhere?

There is a possibility of light rain in Delhi-NCR around April 26. This may provide some relief, but it does not seem that it will last long. For the time being, heat pressure will remain in the remaining states.

Why is it so hot?

This time a situation called “Heat Dome” is being considered a major reason. In this, hot air gets trapped at one place and is unable to come out. Due to this the temperature keeps increasing continuously. Currently, a large part of North and Central India is under this effect; hence, the heat is being felt more.

What could be the situation ahead?

According to the Meteorological Department, the heat may increase further in May and June. This time the heatwave days are likely to be more than normal.

The coming weeks are not going to be easy. Therefore, caution is necessary from now on – protection from sunlight, drinking more water and going out only when necessary.