Nagpur: A severe heatwave continued to grip the Vidarbha region for the second consecutive day on Monday, with Amravati emerging as the hottest city in Maharashtra at 46.6 degrees Celsius. The temperature also smashed a 30-year-old record in Wardha.
Amravati and Wardha Among Hottest in India
At 46.6°C, Amravati was the second hottest place in the country, trailing only Banda in Uttar Pradesh, which recorded 47.6°C. Wardha followed closely at 46.5°C, breaking its previous highest maximum temperature of 46.4°C recorded on April 30, 1996.
According to the India Meteorological Department (IMD), Akola, Yavatmal, and Chandrapur also recorded maximum temperatures of 45°C and above, placing them among the top 11 hottest locations in India. Akola sizzled at 46.3°C, while Chandrapur and Yavatmal each recorded 45.2°C. Nagpur also remained in the grip of intense heat at 45°C. Buldhana, Bramhapuri, and Gadchiroli reported temperatures above 43°C.
Previous Day's Record Heat
The situation was alarming on Sunday as Vidarbha experienced record April heat. Akola was the hottest place in the country at 46.9°C, followed by Amravati (46.8°C), Wardha (46.4°C), and Yavatmal (46.0°C). Nagpur touched its highest of the season at 45.4°C. Several cities from the region also featured among the world's top 10 hottest locations, highlighting the severity of the heatwave.
Slight Relief on Monday
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.
IMD data show that temperatures across Vidarbha continue to remain well above normal, with departures ranging from 2.5°C to over 4°C in multiple districts.
High Night Temperatures
Night temperatures have offered little relief, remaining unusually high. Chandrapur recorded a minimum of 29.6°C, Yavatmal 30°C, and Wardha 27.8°C, contributing to persistent discomfort.
IMD Forecast and Precautions
The 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 thunderstorms 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.
