North India braces for extreme heatwave: Red alert issued as temperatures to hit 50°C

The Indian Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued a red alert for heatwaves in Delhi, Punjab, Haryana, and most parts of Western Rajasthan, effective from Sunday, May 19.

The alert warns of extreme heatwave conditions expected to last for five days, with major cities such as Delhi and Chandigarh already experiencing temperatures soaring over 47°C.

This red alert indicates a severe heatwave, defined by the IMD as temperatures reaching at least 40°C in plains or a departure from normal temperatures by 4.5°C to 6.4°C. If the temperature rise exceeds 6.4°C above normal, it is classified as a severe heatwave.

May is historically the peak month for heatwaves in India, affecting a wide range of regions including Punjab, Haryana, Delhi, Uttar Pradesh, Bihar, Jharkhand, West Bengal, Odisha, Madhya Pradesh, Rajasthan, Gujarat, parts of Maharashtra and Karnataka, Andhra Pradesh, and Telangana.

Occasionally, Tamil Nadu and Kerala also experience heatwaves. The IMD explains that heatwaves can be fatal due to high air temperatures, especially when maximum temperatures surpass 45°C, which is common in Rajasthan and the Vidarbha region during May.

The red alert signifies an extreme heat warning, indicating a high likelihood of heat illness and heat strokes affecting all age groups, particularly vulnerable populations such as the elderly and infants.

The IMD urges extreme caution and measures to protect against the severe health impacts of the ongoing heatwave, emphasizing the necessity for increased awareness and preparedness during this critical period.