Heatwave Onset Imminent
Forecasters at the Meteorological Centre in Lucknow have issued a stern warning regarding an impending heatwave across Uttar Pradesh. The next seven days
are projected to witness a significant escalation in daytime temperatures, with experts anticipating an increase of 6 to 8 degrees Celsius in the maximum temperature. Accompanying this, minimum temperatures are also expected to climb by a notable 4 to 6 degrees Celsius. This sustained period of dry weather is the primary driver behind this sharp upward trend, pushing many parts of the state, including the capital Lucknow, towards crossing the critical 40°C threshold. The current warming trend is already quite evident, as the past three days have seen an average rise of 6–8°C in maximum temperatures across various districts.
Cities Already Sweltering
While Lucknow's maximum temperature on Saturday stood at 35.3°C, falling 1.9°C below the normal average for this time of year, and its minimum temperature was recorded at 18.4°C, other districts are already experiencing much more intense heat. Prayagraj and Jhansi emerged as the hottest cities on Saturday, both recording a sweltering 37.6°C. Following closely were Varanasi (BHU) and Orai, which registered 37.4°C. Several other areas also reported high temperatures, with Sultanpur reaching 37.2°C, and Ghazipur and Azamgarh hitting 37.0°C. Further south, Banda recorded 36.8°C, Ballia 36.5°C, and Barabanki 36.0°C. Even areas in central and western Uttar Pradesh, which have comparatively milder conditions, are seeing elevated temperatures. Kanpur and Hardoi both registered 35.6°C, Gorakhpur reached 35.5°C, and Basti touched 35.0°C. Cities like Bareilly (33.5°C), Moradabad (33.2°C), and Muzaffarnagar (32.0°C) are also experiencing an upward trend in heat, according to experts.
Wind Relief Fading
Currently, the region is experiencing some respite from the heat due to strong westerly winds blowing at speeds of 30 to 40 kmph, with gusts reaching up to 50 kmph. These winds have been providing a temporary cooling effect during the daytime. However, this atmospheric buffer is expected to diminish significantly. Officials have indicated that these winds are predicted to weaken considerably after April 12th. The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has confirmed that no significant weather systems are anticipated to influence Uttar Pradesh's climate over the next week. With the skies remaining clear and the weather conditions staying predominantly dry, a further rise in maximum temperatures by an additional 4–6°C is forecast, commencing from Monday. The confluence of receding winds and persistent dry weather is the critical factor that will likely push temperatures beyond the 40°C mark in numerous locations across the state, signalling the definite arrival of more intense summer conditions.
