Scorching Sun Scalds Uttar Pradesh, Mercury Soars Past 45°C Amid Relentless Heatwave

Lucknow, April 20 (TNA) Uttar Pradesh is in the grip of a ferocious heatwave as of Monday, with the India Meteorological Department (IMD) issuing alerts for severe conditions in eastern districts until today, where temperatures have consistently exceeded 45°C driven by scorching westerly winds and oppressive humidity.

Cities like Prayagraj have recorded brutal highs of 47.6°C, while Agra hit 45.9°C, Jhansi, Varanasi, and Kanpur all crossed 45°C, and even Lucknow-typically milder-saw daytime peaks above 40°C far beyond its April average of 37°C high and 21°C low.

Lows have hovered around 25°C in Lucknow, offering little nighttime respite and amplifying health risks for the elderly, laborers, and children, prompting school schedule adjustments in affected areas.

No immediate relief is in sight, as the IMD forecasts sustained heatwave conditions through April 20 in east UP, extending to nearby regions like East Rajasthan until April 22, with authorities urging hydration, avoidance of peak sun hours from noon to 4 PM, and adherence to local advisories amid rising cases of heat-related illnesses.

This early-season scorcher, deviating sharply from norms by over 4.5°C, underscores the intensifying climate patterns straining public health and daily life across the state.