North India Faces Intense Heatwave as Monsoon Wait Continues

Severe Heat Grips Northern India

Northern India is currently experiencing extreme heat, with residents eagerly awaiting the arrival of the monsoon to provide some relief. After enduring intense heat throughout May, Chandigarh recorded a staggering maximum temperature of 43.8 degrees Celsius on Monday.

This temperature was significantly higher than Sunday’s 42.1 degrees Celsius, marking a rise of 5 degrees above the normal range. According to the Indian Meteorological Department (IMD), this is the highest temperature recorded this year, and it marks the first day of a heatwave in the city.

The IMD declares a heatwave when the maximum temperature exceeds 40 degrees Celsius and is at least 4.5 degrees above the normal level. A severe heatwave is announced if temperatures rise by 6.5 degrees or more above normal. Additionally, if temperatures surpass 45 degrees Celsius, a heatwave is confirmed, and if they exceed 47 degrees Celsius, a severe heatwave warning is issued, regardless of the normal temperature deviations.