North India on the Boil; Punjab and Haryana brace for blistering heatwave; Mercury to soar beyond 47°C

The sun is showing no pity, and residents of Punjab and Haryana are preparing for a severe heat wave that will be perilous in its intensity. The temperature would go beyond 47°C with no signs of even minimal relief. 

On Monday, Punjab's Bathinda soared to a blistering 46.7°C—3.4 degrees more than the seasonal norm. Haryana's Sirsa was not far behind at 46.6°C, the state's highest reading so far.

The Meteorological Department reported Bathinda and Sirsa reaching 47°C on June 12, with Bathinda holding the same on the 13th. Tarn Taran would most likely join these districts by the 14th. Sirsa would be expected to reach 46.5°C by the end of the week, which would be the highest temperature ever in the entire Haryana.

Staying safe during a heatwave

• Drink plenty of water to stay hydrated throughout the day.
• Wear light cotton, strongly recommended with baggy ones.
• Less sun exposure with devices like hats and umbrellas is advisable.
• Drink cooling beverages such as lemonades, lassis, and orange juices, and eat cool fruits like watermelons.
• Be careful of the first signs of heatstroke, which include dizziness, nausea, and exhaustion.
• If one of these symptoms presents, it is advisable to cool down the body with ice or water and immediately seek medical attention. 

People are being advised to treat this weather seriously. This is potentially going to be one of the worst heat waves the country has experienced in decades. The vulnerable groups are older people, children, and workers outside. They need extra caution.

As the heat gets hotter, the word is oout—don'ttake any risks. Be cool, stay hydrated, and avoid going outside as much as possible.