Delhi witnessed record-high temperature reaching 49.9C, with authorities issuing warnings of potential water shortages in the capital. The India Meteorological Department attributed this extreme heat to severe heatwave conditions and recorded temperatures nine degrees higher than usual. Health risks, especially for vulnerable populations, were a major concern.
While Delhi battles scorching heat, other parts of India grapple with Cyclone Remal’s heavy rains and strong winds. This cyclone struck India and Bangladesh on Sunday, leaving behind more than 38 fatalities.
India is no stranger to summer heatwaves, but this year’s intensity is likely linked to climate change, which according to scientific research, increases the frequency, duration, and intensity of heatwaves. Forecasters predict similar scorching temperatures for Delhi in the coming days and have issued a red alert warning residents to exercise caution.
Other than Delhi temperature , Water scarcity is another big concern in Delhi due to the heatwave. The city government has called for collective responsibility to stop water wastage and has implemented measures like reducing the frequency of water supply in certain areas. The saved water will be rationed and supplied to water-deficient areas.
Rajasthan, another Indian state, experienced the hottest temperatures nationwide at 50.5C. This state’s desert region holds the record for the hottest temperature ever recorded in India, at 51C in 2016.