Beware, Uttar Pradesh! The scorching heatwave that gripped the state is about to take a breather, but not without throwing a curveball first. Meteorologists warn of a brewing storm packing thunder, lightning, and strong surface winds. This weather change is expected to affect several districts, including Western Uttar Pradesh, Bundelkhand, and Lucknow.
Moisture Inflow from Arabian Sea Triggers Change
Experts attribute this sudden shift to increased moisture from the Arabian Sea. The weather is predicted to turn on March 31st, bringing strong winds gusting up to 40 kilometers per hour across various districts. Be prepared for the possibility of thunder and lightning in Prayagraj, Pratapgarh, Lalitpur, Jhansi, Mahoba, Kanpur Dehat, Jaunpur, Ghazipur, Sant Ravidas Nagar, Varanasi, Fatehpur, Chitrakoot, Kaushambi, Mirzapur, and Chandauli.
Prayagraj Sizzles Before the Storm
Just before this weather upheaval, Prayagraj witnessed the brunt of the heatwave. The relentless sun pushed daytime temperatures past the 40-degree mark on Saturday, making it the hottest city in the state. However, meteorologists predict a partly cloudy sky with strong winds in the next 24 hours.
A Day Under the Scorching Sun
Saturday dawned bright and sunny, and as the day progressed, so did the heat. Stepping outside felt like a blast furnace hitting your face. The afternoon saw a significant drop in market crowds as people sought refuge indoors, cranking up ACs and coolers. The relentless sunlight pushed the day temperature to a scorching 40.7 degrees Celsius, a significant jump from 39.7 degrees Celsius the previous day. This not only made Prayagraj the hottest city in Uttar Pradesh but also exceeded the March average of 36.4 degrees Celsius by a staggering 4.3 degrees Celsius. Following Prayagraj were Agra at 40.4 degrees Celsius and Jhansi at 40.3 degrees Celsius.
Looking Ahead: What to Expect
While the heatwave might be taking a temporary break, residents of Uttar Pradesh shouldn’t relax just yet. The approaching storm brings a different set of challenges. Here’s a quick breakdown of what to expect:
- Strong Winds: Winds gusting up to 40 kilometers per hour are predicted across several districts. Secure loose objects outdoors like furniture and awnings to prevent them from becoming projectiles.
- Thunder and Lightning: Be cautious of potential lightning strikes, especially in the districts mentioned earlier. Stay indoors during thunderstorms and avoid open areas.
- Rainfall: There’s a chance of rain accompanying the storm. While it might bring some relief from the heat, it’s crucial to stay updated on weather advisories for any potential flash floods or localized flooding.
Stay Prepared: Essential Tips for the Upcoming Storm
- Secure your surroundings: Ensure all outdoor furniture, equipment, and decorations are secured or brought indoors.
- Stock up on essentials: Have a good supply of non-perishable food, bottled water, and medications in case of power outages or disruptions.
- Charge your devices: Keep your phone and other electronic devices fully charged in case of power cuts.
- Stay informed: Regularly monitor weather updates from trusted sources like the Indian Meteorological Department (IMD) for the latest forecasts and warnings.
- Have a plan: Discuss a communication plan with your family in case of emergencies. Decide on a safe haven inside your home and designate a meeting point outside your home in case of separation.
By following these tips and staying informed, you can navigate the approaching storm safely. Remember, a little preparation goes a long way in ensuring your well-being during unpredictable weather conditions.
