Heatwave Alert: North India Temperatures Hit Record Highs

New Delhi, May 20: Northern India is enduring one of its harshest heat spells this season. Temperatures climbed above 45°C in multiple districts of Rajasthan, Haryana, Punjab, and Uttar Pradesh, prompting the India Meteorological Department to issue red and orange warnings. Delhi residents faced blistering afternoon conditions as hot winds made outdoor activity nearly impossible. Many areas logged temperatures well above 45°C, leaving streets deserted during peak hours. The impact was particularly severe in Uttar Pradesh. In Varanasi, locals battled 45-46°C heat by using umbrellas and wearing light cotton clothes. Community leaders urged visitors to stay indoors during midday to avoid heat-related health risks. Medical facilities in Noida prepared for rising cases by creating a specialized cool room and deploying extra doctors. Ghazipur’s medical college set up a dedicated heatstroke ward. In Kota, Rajasthan, officials focused on protecting animals by installing water sprays and cooling systems in cattle shelters. Chandigarh recorded extreme readings, with Rohtak hitting 46.9°C and Faridkot reaching 47°C. IMD officials forecast that these conditions will continue for at least two more days. Hill stations also felt the heat. Himachal Pradesh issued warnings for Kangra and Solan. Una reported 43.4°C, while Shimla experienced its warmest day of the season at 29.4°C.