Large areas in the north and east of India were experiencing severe heat wave conditions on Wednesday. The India Meteorological Department stated that a western disturbance might bring some relief over the next few days, although it would only be minimal.
Additionally, the current conditions are conducive for the Monsoon to advance further. However, between June 12 and 18, there was no significant progress in the Monsoon's advancement, prolonging the wait for rain in north India, which is suffering from the intense heat.
In Delhi, hospitals reported an increase in cases of heatstroke and several deaths over the past two days. The city experienced a maximum temperature of 43.6 degrees Celsius, which is more than four degrees above the normal. The minimum temperature in Delhi was 35.2 degrees Celsius, the highest in June since 1969.
Now-advancing Western disturbances are expected to provide relief from the high temperatures in the northern region. Light rainfall is anticipated in Delhi on June 20.
Following a long dry spell, light showers were witnessed in several places in Uttarakhand, including Dehradun, on Wednesday. Thunderstorms and rainfall in Shimla and the surrounding areas brought relief to Himachal Pradesh.
The intense heat has led to a high demand for water, with reservoir and river levels reaching record lows. The water shortage is impacting agricultural activities in some regions.
The power grids are facing immense pressure, resulting in an increase in incidents of short circuits and fires.
Delhi's temperatures have remained above 40 degrees since May 12. In these 36 days, the city saw 16 days when the mercury reached or surpassed 45 degrees.
IMD authorities have stated that the impact of severe heat is worsening due to high minimum temperatures or warm nights.
This summer, India is facing one of its most scorching periods. Several heat waves have stretched the country's inhabitants to their breaking points, and numerous states have documented deaths caused by the heat.
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