Lucknow: Uttar Pradesh continues to reel under intense heatwave conditions as the beginning of Nautapa has pushed temperatures to alarming levels across the state. However, the India Meteorological Department has indicated that relief may arrive after May 29, with temperatures likely to fall by 6 to 8 degrees Celsius.
According to the report, there is little possibility of immediate relief over the next three days. The state is currently facing scorching daytime heat, while several districts have already crossed the 45 degree Celsius mark. Banda emerged as one of the hottest places not just in Uttar Pradesh but in the country, recording 47.6 degrees Celsius.
Other districts also reported severe heat. Jhansi recorded 46 degrees Celsius, Urai 45.8 degrees Celsius, Agra 45.5 degrees Celsius, Prayagraj 45.4 degrees Celsius and Hamirpur 45.2 degrees Celsius. In the state capital Lucknow, the maximum temperature touched 42.3 degrees Celsius, leaving residents struggling through the day.
The impact of the heat is visible in daily life. Roads are turning empty after noon, markets are seeing fewer visitors and people are avoiding stepping out unless necessary. Daily wage workers, rickshaw pullers and roadside vendors are among the worst affected, as hot winds make outdoor work increasingly difficult.
Health concerns have also grown. Doctors have warned that rising temperatures can lead to dehydration, dizziness and heat stroke. Hospitals and health centres across the state have been placed on high alert. The government has advised people to avoid going out between 12 noon and 4 pm unless it is essential. People have also been asked to wear light cotton clothes, drink enough water and consume lemon water, buttermilk, seasonal fruits and ORS.
In Lucknow, the administration has started small relief measures. Green shades have been installed above traffic signals in Hazratganj to protect commuters from direct sunlight. At the 1090 crossing, water is being sprayed through the day to reduce surface heat. In Gonda, electricity department workers are cooling transformers with fans and water as power demand continues to rise.
Eastern Uttar Pradesh remains under the highest risk, with the weather department warning of severe heatwave conditions. Experts say hot nights are equally dangerous because the body does not get enough time to recover.
For now, residents are waiting for May 29, when a change in weather may finally bring some relief from the ongoing heat spell.