Temperature Predictions and Regional Impact
Senior IMD scientist Naresh Kumar reported, “Temperatures are currently above normal across North West India, and we had issued a red alert for the region over the past 2-3 days. The maximum temperature is likely to inch further up from 45°C and settle at 47°C in Rajasthan.” In Punjab and Haryana, temperatures will gradually increase by 2 to 3 degrees after a slight drop due to a western disturbance. Uttar Pradesh also faces a red alert for the next five days, and an orange alert is issued for northern Madhya Pradesh.Health Advisories for Heatwave Conditions
Health experts urge people to avoid stepping outdoors between 11 am and 4 pm. Dr. Neeraj Nishchal from AIIMS, Delhi, highlighted that health issues from rising temperatures could range from rashes, heat exhaustion, dehydration, to heat strokes. To minimize the impact, doctors recommend staying indoors, drinking fluids frequently, and wearing lightweight, light-colored clothing.
Health Experts Warn of Heat-Related Illnesses
Health experts have advised people to avoid going outdoors between 11 am and 4 pm to prevent heat-related health issues. Dr. Neeraj Nishchal, a professor at AIIMS, Delhi, explained that rising temperatures can cause problems ranging from minor rashes and heat exhaustion to severe heat strokes. “The human body is well-designed to handle heat, but when environmental temperatures rise, the body’s heat dissipation mechanism becomes overwhelmed,” said Dr. Nishchal. “This can lead to serious problems like heat stroke, where body temperature exceeds 40°C, potentially causing multi-organ dysfunction.”
Precautions to Minimize Health Risks
Dr. Jatin Ahuja, an infectious disease specialist at Apollo Hospital, emphasized early signs of heat-related illnesses, such as heat cramps and heat exhaustion. He noted that these conditions are reversible if addressed promptly. Dr. Ajay Kumar Gupta from Max Hospital, Vaishali, reported an increase in patients suffering from heat-related issues, with some requiring hospitalization.To minimize risks, health experts recommend:
- Staying indoors between 11 am and 4 pm.
- Wearing lightweight, light-colored, loose cotton clothes.
- Using protective measures like hats, sunglasses, and umbrellas.
- Drinking plenty of water, even if not thirsty.
Peak Power Demand Hits New High
Delhi’s peak power demand surged to a record 7,557 MW at 3:33 pm today, driven by a heatwave affecting several parts of the national capital. According to the State Load Dispatch Centre’s real-time data, this demand surpasses the previous record of 7,438 MW set on August 22 last year. Electricity companies predict that Delhi’s peak power demand could exceed 8,000 MW this summer.
Historic Power Consumption Trends
Last year, Delhi’s highest-ever peak power demand was recorded at 7,695 MW on June 29, 2022. Today’s figure marks a significant milestone, as it is the highest demand ever recorded for the month of May. This is the third consecutive day that Delhi’s peak power demand has crossed the 7,000-MW mark. The previous highest demand for May was 7,070 MW on May 19, 2022.
Temperature Surge Driving Power Usage
The spike in power consumption is largely due to the rising temperatures across the city. In April, Delhi’s peak power demand varied between 3,809 MW and 5,447 MW. This year, April saw a similar range, with peak demand between 3,388 MW and 5,422 MW.
Possible Relief in Southern India
While the northern regions endure the heat, relief is anticipated in the south. The IMD forecasts heavy to very heavy rains, up to 12 cm, in Tamil Nadu and Kerala over the next 2-3 days, providing some respite from the summer heat.
(With inputs from ANI)