Kanpur is likely to face a severe heatwave on Friday, with temperatures expected to soar to 44-45 degrees Celsius, a day after the city recorded 40.1 degrees Celsius amid oppressive heat and humidity that left residents struggling throughout Thursday.
Thursday's Heat and Humidity
The maximum temperature on Thursday was nearly two degrees Celsius higher than Wednesday's reading, while high moisture levels in the atmosphere made conditions particularly uncomfortable. South-eastern winds blowing at 3.9 kmph and relative humidity of 62 percent added to the discomfort. Many residents complained that sweat was not evaporating properly and even air coolers were increasing humidity indoors.
According to weather experts, the heat index during the hottest part of the afternoon remained between 42 degrees Celsius and 44 degrees Celsius, while the UV index stayed in the very high category. Experts advised people to avoid prolonged exposure to sunlight and take precautions against dehydration, heat exhaustion, and heat cramps.
Forecast for Friday and Beyond
Weather expert Dr. S. Sunil Pandey of CSA University said a severe heatwave is likely to prevail across all six districts of the Kanpur division on Friday, June 5. The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has forecast that daytime temperatures in Kanpur could touch 44-45 degrees Celsius, while night temperatures may remain between 30 degrees Celsius and 33 degrees Celsius.
The IMD has also indicated the possibility of light cloud cover or isolated showers accompanied by thunder and lightning in some districts. Dr. Pandey said temperatures are expected to rise further due to bright sunshine, although light rain, drizzle, gusty winds, and thunderstorms may occur during afternoon hours over the next three days.
He said temperatures could increase by another 3 to 5 degrees during the remaining days of the week, intensifying humid heat conditions across the region.
Precautions Advised
Advising residents to take precautions, Dr. Pandey urged people to avoid direct exposure to sunlight between noon and 4 pm, stay adequately hydrated by consuming water, ORS, and homemade drinks, and wear loose-fitting cotton clothing.
