Varanasi: After recording its hottest day on Thursday at 45.6°C, the city of Kashi continued to suffer under intense heatwave conditions on Friday, with the maximum temperature settling at 44.5°C. According to the India Meteorological Department (IMD), the maximum temperature was 3.7°C above normal, while the minimum temperature stood at 28.6°C, which is 2°C above normal.
Weather Conditions and Impact
The weather remained sunny with clear skies and dry hot winds. City roads, markets, and ghats were deserted during peak afternoon hours. Residents described the conditions as unbearable, with many opting to stay indoors.
“The winds feel like they’re coming straight from a blower. Even a 10-minute walk to the market is unbearable,” said Anil Kumar, a resident of Bhelupur.
Renu Singh, a homemaker from Lanka, added, “We’re keeping the coolers on all day and night. The kids haven’t stepped out to play for a week. It’s like living inside an oven.”
Auto driver Mohammad Salim, waiting near Godowlia, shared, “There are no passengers after 11 am. The seats get so hot you can’t sit. We’re surviving on sugarcane juice.”
No Relief Expected Soon
Weather experts have indicated that no rain relief is expected in the coming days. The heatwave is likely to persist, keeping temperatures elevated.
Municipal Measures
The Varanasi Municipal Corporation (VMC) has been spraying water in various city areas to provide some respite to residents. “Besides water spraying, we’ve set up ORS counters at primary health centres,” said a VMC health officer.
Residents are advised to stay hydrated and avoid going out during the hottest part of the day.
