Banda Bakes at 48.2°C as Heatwave Sweeps UP, IMD Issues Red Alert in 11 Districts

Uttar Pradesh remained at the centre of India’s worsening heatwave crisis on Thursday, with Banda district recording a scorching 48.2 degrees Celsius , the highest temperature in the country for the third straight day. The India Meteorological Department (IMD) issued a red alert for 11 districts across the state, warning of severe heatwave conditions and dangerously high daytime temperatures.

The alert covers Banda, Chitrakoot, Prayagraj, Jhansi, Hamirpur, Fatehpur and several adjoining districts, where hot winds and dry weather have intensified discomfort. Officials warned that prolonged exposure to the sun could trigger dehydration, heat exhaustion and heatstroke, especially among children, elderly people and outdoor workers.

Delhi and the National Capital Region also reeled under extreme heat. The Ridge weather station recorded nearly 46 degrees Celsius , while Safdarjung, the capital’s primary observatory, registered 44.5 degrees Celsius. The city also experienced its warmest May night in nearly 14 years, with minimum temperatures remaining unusually high. The IMD extended its orange alert for Delhi until May 26.

Rajasthan, Punjab and Haryana continued to witness punishing weather conditions, with temperatures crossing 46 degrees Celsius in several places. Haryana’s Rohtak touched 46.9 degrees Celsius, while Punjab’s Bathinda recorded 46.6 degrees Celsius. Chandigarh registered its hottest day of the season at 44.4 degrees Celsius.

The heatwave has started affecting daily life in several states. Reports from Banda indicated markets were shutting early, roads appeared deserted during afternoon hours and hospitals were witnessing an increase in heat-related illnesses, including dehydration and dizziness. Authorities in some districts are also considering changes to school timings.

According to the IMD, persistent dry winds, weak pre-monsoon activity and stable high-pressure conditions are driving the severe weather pattern, with little immediate relief expected across north India over the next few days.