Rajasthan is currently experiencing an intense heatwave, with temperatures soaring to dangerous levels. The last 24 hours have seen Pilani recording a maximum temperature of 46.6 degrees Celsius, while Sri Ganganagar follows closely with 46.3 degrees Celsius.
The Regional Meteorological Department has warned that temperatures in West Rajasthan could exceed 47 degrees Celsius in the coming days.
Radhe Shyam Sharma, Director of the Regional Centre of the India Meteorological Department (IMD) in Jaipur, has confirmed that there is no immediate relief in sight from this extreme heat.
The IMD had earlier forecasted severe heatwave conditions over several regions, including Punjab, Haryana, Chandigarh, Delhi, West Rajasthan, some parts of East Rajasthan, West Uttar Pradesh, and West Madhya Pradesh.
The ongoing heatwave has prompted the health department of Rajasthan to be on high alert. Dr. Ravi Prakash, Director of the Rajasthan Health Department, stated that the department has trained 570 medical officers to deal with the heatwave's impact.
The Regional Meteorological Department provides advance alerts, allowing the health department to prepare adequately for districts under red, orange, and yellow alerts. Efforts are being made to ensure proper treatment for patients suffering from heatstroke, with all necessary guidelines dispatched to district officials.
In response to the severe heatwave, the IMD has issued several recommendations to help people stay safe. It is advised to stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water, even if not feeling thirsty, and to consume ORS and homemade drinks like lassi, Torani (rice water), lemon water, and buttermilk.
People are also encouraged to avoid heat exposure, use hats or umbrellas to cover their heads, and wear light-coloured, loose, and cotton clothing to help cope with the heat.
The health department's proactive measures and the IMD's timely alerts aim to mitigate the heatwave's impact on Rajasthan's residents. However, with temperatures expected to rise further, staying informed and taking necessary precautions remain crucial.