Residents of Kanpur experienced marginal relief on Tuesday as the mercury dipped by another degree across the division. According to weather observatories, the maximum temperature was recorded at 40.2 degrees Celsius, slightly above normal, while the minimum temperature stood at 26 degrees Celsius, 3.2 degrees above the seasonal average.
The city recorded the season's hottest day on Sunday with mercury touching 44 degrees Celsius, followed by a 3-degree drop on Monday, with temperatures declining further on Tuesday. However, despite the dip, discomfort persisted due to high humidity levels. Maximum relative humidity remained steady at 67 percent, pushing the heat index to around 50 degrees Celsius, making conditions feel significantly hotter for residents.
As per the forecast by the India Meteorological Department, weather conditions on Wednesday are expected to feature mild sunshine with intermittent cloud cover. The IMD has also indicated a possible change in weather over the next two to three days. There are chances of light drizzle or showers accompanied by strong winds, dust storms, and isolated hailstorm activity.
Weather expert Dr. S Sunil Pandey from Chandra Shekhar Azad University of Agriculture and Technology said that cloud movement is likely to begin from Wednesday, with light rain and dust storms expected in the coming days. However, he cautioned that this change will be temporary, and temperatures are likely to rise again thereafter. With increasing humidity and temperatures, the heat index is likely to hover near 50 degrees Celsius, while daytime temperatures may fluctuate by about half a degree.
Western winds blowing at speeds between 4.2 kmph and 7 kmph are expected to add to the heatwave-like conditions. He also advised residents to stay hydrated by drinking water at regular intervals and urged citizens to arrange drinking water for birds and animals during the ongoing heat conditions.
