Lagatar24 Desk
New Delhi: Delhi and Punjab remain under a red alert as an unrelenting heatwave grips large parts of north India, while states in southern India are set to witness heavy rainfall over the coming days. According to the India Meteorological Department (IMD), Delhi recorded temperatures ranging from 40.9°C to 45.0°C on Wednesday, with the heat index, which combines temperature and humidity, peaking at an extreme 51.9°C.
Relief Expected in Delhi After June 13
Despite the intense conditions, the IMD forecasts some respite for northwest India starting June 14, as a western disturbance is likely to bring rain and thunderstorms. “The severe heat is expected to persist till Thursday. A western disturbance is likely to affect northwest India from the night of June 13, which may bring light rain and thunderstorms in Delhi,” IMD scientist Naresh Kumar stated. Areas such as Ayanagar recorded 45°C, followed closely by Palam (44.5°C), Ridge (43.6°C), Pitampura (43.5°C), Lodi Road (43.4°C), Safdarjung (43.3°C), and Mayur Vihar (40.9°C). On Wednesday, Delhi also saw its highest peak power demand of the season at 8,231 MW at 10:55 pm, as per the State Load Dispatch Centre (SLDC).
Punjab Remains Under Red Alert Till June 13
Punjab continued to battle extreme temperatures with dry weather conditions pushing mercury levels well above normal. The IMD has extended the red alert for the state for June 12 and 13, advising residents to take precautions against heat-related illnesses. “Heat wave to severe heat wave conditions are likely to continue over northwest India, including the western Himalayan region, till June 13 and reduce thereafter,” the IMD bulletin stated.
Heavy Rainfall Predicted for Telangana and Karnataka
While northern India endures severe heat, southern India is preparing for heavy rains. In Telangana, 10 districts including Adilabad, Kumaram Bheem Asifabad, Jagtial, Vikarabad, Sangareddy, Mahabubnagar, Nagarkurnool, Wanaparthy, Narayanpet, and Jogulamba Gadwal are under a heavy rainfall alert for June 12. Thunderstorms, lightning, and gusty winds are also expected across isolated parts of the state.
Southwest Monsoon Gains Strength in Karnataka
In Karnataka, the southwest monsoon has regained strength, bringing widespread rainfall since Thursday morning. The IMD predicts continued widespread rain across coastal and north interior Karnataka until June 17. South interior Karnataka will see fairly widespread rain until June 14, which will intensify to widespread rainfall over the subsequent three days.
