Temperature likely to rise 5°C in Gurgaon, heatwave alert issued for 5 days

Gurgaon: The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued a heatwave alert for Haryana, including Gurgaon, from April 25 to 29, with daytime temperatures expected to rise sharply over the coming days.
"Both maximum and minimum temperatures across the state are likely to increase by 3 to 5 degrees Celsius during this period," said a senior IMD official.
The rise in mercury levels are attributed to prevailing dry and hot northwesterly winds across the region. Residents have been advised to take necessary precautions to avoid heat-related health risks.
On Wednesday, the mercury dipped slightly with the minimum temperature recorded at 19.6°C, which was 1.7 degrees below the normal of 21.3°C. The maximum settled at 37.9°C, around 2 to 3 notches above normal, and marginally lower than Tuesday's 38.4°C. The minimum on Tuesday was 21.6°C. According to IMD, a heatwave is declared in the plains when the maximum temperature reaches 40 degrees Celsius or more and is at least 4.5 degrees above the seasonal normal. If the anomaly exceeds 6.4 degrees Celsius, it is classified as a severe heatwave.
The weather department has urged people to stay indoors during peak afternoon hours, remain well-hydrated, and wear light, breathable clothing. "Particular attention should be given to children, senior citizens, and individuals with chronic illnesses, who are more susceptible to heatstroke," the official added.
IMD has released an advisory on managing heat-related illnesses and stressed the importance of community support to protect vulnerable populations.