May in Uttar Pradesh is notorious for its intense heat every year, but this year the sun's intensity is particularly severe. Temperatures have exceeded 40 degrees Celsius in over 20 districts, significantly impacting daily life.
Lucknow: While May in Uttar Pradesh is annually known for its scorching heat, this year's temperatures have broken records. Over 20 districts have recorded temperatures exceeding 40 degrees Celsius, severely affecting the lives of the people. Major cities like Jhansi, Kanpur, and Prayagraj, in particular, feel like ovens. The meteorological department has forecast a further intensification of heatwaves and hot winds in the coming days, advising people to exercise caution.
Alarming Heat Data
According to the meteorological department, on May 14th, the maximum temperature in 20 districts of Uttar Pradesh was recorded above 40 degrees. The highest temperatures were recorded in Jhansi at 45.2°C, Prayagraj at 44.6°C, and Kanpur at 43.9°C. Furthermore, cities like Lucknow, Bareilly, Agra, Varanasi, Meerut, Gorakhpur, and Rae Bareli also crossed the 40°C mark. While western UP experiences low humidity, the combination of humidity and temperature in eastern UP has worsened the situation.
Deserted Streets During the Day, Altered Office Hours
The intense sun and heatwaves have resulted in deserted streets during the afternoon. Usually crowded markets like Aminabad in Lucknow, Parade in Kanpur, and Subhash Chowk in Prayagraj appear deserted between 12 pm and 4 pm. Many private offices have now adopted working hours from 7 am to 1 pm, while government offices have also received instructions not to send employees out unnecessarily during the afternoon.
Booming Business for Juice and Sherbet Vendors
While the heat has made life difficult for many, juice and soft drink vendors are experiencing a surge in business. Long queues are seen outside sugarcane juice and bael sherbet stalls near Charbagh in Lucknow and Prayagraj railway station. Santosh Yadav, a local vendor in Varanasi, says that sugarcane juice and lemonade are the best sellers. “There's so much rush in the afternoon that the machine doesn't even get a chance to stop,” he explains.
Rise in Heat Stroke Cases in Hospitals
The intense heat has led to an increase in heat stroke and dehydration cases in hospitals. According to Jhansi Medical College, 36 people affected by heatstroke have arrived at the hospital in the last two days, 8 of whom required admission. Doctors at Prayagraj's SRN Hospital have advised that elderly people and children should avoid going outdoors during the afternoon.
When Will the Relief Arrive?
According to meteorologist Dr. Rakesh Pandey, "There is no expectation of relief for the next 4-5 days. Pre-monsoon showers are expected around May 20th in eastern Uttar Pradesh, but before that, the temperature may reach 46 degrees."
Administration Issues Advisory
The State Disaster Management Department has issued a heatwave advisory appealing to citizens to:
- Avoid going out between 12 pm and 4 pm
- Wear light-colored cotton clothes
- Drink plenty of water and consume electrolyte solutions (salt-lemon water)
- Pay special attention to the elderly and children
Sandhya Mishra, a homemaker from Kanpur, says, "Power cuts and intense heat have turned the house into a furnace. Even the fan is ineffective." Meanwhile, Lallan Yadav, an e-rickshaw driver from Prayagraj, says, "It's become difficult to work during the afternoon, but I still have to brave the sun to earn my living."
