Guwahati residents have been sweltering under unusually high temperatures for weeks. On May 23rd, the city experienced a scorching maximum of 38°C, which felt closer to 47°C due to high humidity, with a minimum temperature of 25°C offering little respite.
Guwahati Endures Weeks Of Above-Normal Temperatures
State wise Weather Warning for NE states dtd. 24.05.2024 pic.twitter.com/foBhRWcQqx
— Rwfc Guwahati (@GuwahatiRmc) May 24, 2024
The forecast paints an even hotter picture, with weather apps predicting a further rise to a scorching 39°C on May 25th. This heatwave isn’t unique to Guwahati, with severe conditions gripping much of India. Delhi is bracing itself for an average temperature of 46°C in the coming days, prompting school closures to protect students.
Recognising the potential dangers posed by the extreme heat, the Inspector of Schools in Kamrup Metro district issued directives on May 22nd to safeguard students’ well-being. Schools will now be required to ring a designated “water bell” three times a day as a reminder for students to stay hydrated. Additionally, morning assemblies will be held indoors, either in classrooms or on verandas, instead of the usual open spaces or fields.
IMD Predicts Peak Temperatures
City forecast for Guwahati and its neighborhood dtd 24.05.2024 pic.twitter.com/eb2liqpzun
— Rwfc Guwahati (@GuwahatiRmc) May 24, 2024
The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has predicted a peak on May 23rd with a maximum temperature of 38°C, followed by a slight dip to 37°C which is expected to hold until May 25th. Thankfully, some relief is expected with temperatures gradually decreasing to 36°C on May 26th and further down to 35°C by May 29th.
For Guwahati residents, this unrelenting heat presents a unique challenge. The scorching Guwahati temperatures and high humidity are reminiscent of the “Loo” – a dry, hot wind phenomenon more commonly associated with northern and central parts of India.
The IMD has issued a special bulletin warning of hot and humid conditions across Assam for the next few days. This has been attributed to a combination of partly cloudy skies and high solar radiation, causing a significant rise in temperatures.
It’s important to note that these temperatures are expected to be 5°C to 7°C above normal, with highs exceeding 35°C in many districts. With these unusual conditions persisting, staying cool and hydrated will be paramount for the city’s well-being in the coming days.
Cover Image Courtesy: Wikimedia Commons
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