Heatwave grips Haryana; Palwal hottest at 44°C

A searing heatwave swept across Haryana on Thursday, driving up both day and night temperatures and prompting health officials to issue public advisories. The scorching conditions saw residents taking precautions while venturing outdoors, often seen shielding themselves from the blazing sun with dupattas, scarves and cloth wraps.

According to the India Meteorological Department (IMD), there has been a noticeable increase even in nighttime temperatures. The state's average minimum temperature rose by 1.4°C compared to the previous day, though it remains close to the seasonal norm. Mahendragarh recorded the lowest minimum temperature in the state at 23.2°C.

Ambala recorded a minimum temperature at 27.8°C, Bhiwani 28.7°C, Rohtak 26.2°C and Charkhi Dadri 26.6°C. Hisar recorded 24.1°C, Karnal 24.5°C, Sirsa and Nuh both 25°C, Faridabad 26.1°C, Palwal 25.6°C, Jind 24.3°C and Rewari 24.1°C.

The maximum temperatures painted an even more scorching picture, with Palwal emerging as the hottest spot at 44°C followed by Rohtak (43°C), Mahendragarh and Hisar (42.5°C), Bhiwani (42.7°C) and Ambala (42.2°C). Karnal recorded 40.6°C, Gurugram and Faridabad also 40.6°C, while Panipat saw a high of 39.9°C. Other districts such as Nuh recorded 40.8°C, Jind 41.5°C whereas Rewari recorded 41.0°C.

As the mercury soared, juice stalls and fruit vendors selling watermelons, muskmelons, and sugarcane juice witnessed brisk business, especially in the sweltering afternoon hours.

Health officials have urged citizens to avoid stepping out during peak sunlight hours and to take necessary precautions.

“People are advised to stay hydrated and wear cotton clothes while stepping out of their houses. Consume adequate liquid as per body’s requirement,” said Dr Amandeep Singh, Head, Department of Medicine, Kalpana Chawla Government Medical College, Karnal.

He further warned, “People must stay indoors during peak hours. The risk of heatstroke and related illness is rising as the temperature increases day by day.”