Nagpur: The Vidarbha region continued to reel under a severe heatwave for the second consecutive day on Monday, with Amravati emerging as the hottest city in Maharashtra at 46.6 degrees Celsius. The heat also smashed a 30-year-old record in Wardha, where the mercury touched 46.5 degrees Celsius.
Amravati Second Hottest in India
At 46.6 degrees Celsius, Amravati was also the second hottest place in the country, after Banda in Uttar Pradesh which recorded 47.6 degrees Celsius. Wardha, at 46.5 degrees Celsius, claimed the third spot. The previous highest maximum temperature for Wardha was 46.4 degrees Celsius, recorded on April 30, 1996.
Other Hotspots in Vidarbha
According to India Meteorological Department (IMD) data, Akola, Yavatmal and Chandrapur also recorded maximum temperatures of 45 degrees Celsius and above, making them among the top 11 hottest places in India. Akola sizzled at 46.3 degrees Celsius, while Chandrapur and Yavatmal each recorded 45.2 degrees Celsius. Nagpur, with 45 degrees Celsius, remained in the grip of intense heat. Buldhana, Bramhapuri and Gadchiroli also reported temperatures above 43 degrees Celsius.
Record Heat on Sunday
The situation was alarming on Sunday as Vidarbha experienced record April heat. Akola was the hottest place in the country at 46.9 degrees Celsius. Amravati (46.8 degrees Celsius), Wardha (46.4 degrees Celsius) and Yavatmal (46.0 degrees Celsius) were close behind, while Nagpur touched its highest of the season at 45.4 degrees Celsius. Several cities from the region also figured among the world's top 10 hottest locations, highlighting the severity of the heatwave.
Slight Dip in Temperatures
In comparison, these districts registered a slight dip in temperature on Monday. Partial cloud cover, along with light rainfall at isolated pockets, helped bring some relief from the sweltering heat. However, IMD data show temperatures across Vidarbha continue to remain well above normal, with departures ranging from 2.5 degrees Celsius to over 4 degrees Celsius in multiple districts.
Night Temperatures Offer Little Relief
Night temperatures have offered little relief, remaining unusually high. Chandrapur recorded a minimum of 29.6 degrees Celsius, Yavatmal 30 degrees Celsius and Wardha 27.8 degrees Celsius, contributing to persistent discomfort.
Weather Forecast and Advisory
IMD has warned of heatwave conditions in Amravati and Akola for Tuesday as well. Nagpur, Wardha, Yavatmal, Chandrapur and Gadchiroli are likely to receive thundershowers at isolated places on Tuesday. Rain and thunderstorm are expected across Vidarbha on April 29 and 30. Citizens have been advised to avoid prolonged sun exposure, stay hydrated and take precautions to prevent health risks.
