New Delhi: The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued warnings of heatwave to severe heatwave conditions across several states in India over the next five days as the campaign intensifies for the third phase of Lok Sabha elections.
The soaring temperatures have sparked concerns as political rallies draw large crowds out under the scorching sun. Indian voters preparing to participate in the third phase of elections on May 7 will face sweltering conditions, especially in states like West Bengal, Bihar, Karnataka, Kerala, Goa, and East Uttar Pradesh.
The Election Commission has urged parties and authorities to take additional measures to ensure the safety of voters, candidates, and polling station staff. Authorities have cautioned people to exercise extreme caution during these conditions, as there is a risk of sunburn and heatstroke.
The mercury soared to alarming levels in several areas of Maharashtra yesterday, with Solapur recording the highest temperature at 43.7 degrees Celsius. In Odisha and West Bengal, the scorching heatwave has disrupted daily life, with temperatures reaching unprecedented highs. IMD issued a heatwave alert in Kerala’s Kollam, Thrissur, and Palakkad districts, where heatwave conditions are expected to prevail.
Experts fear that the rising temperatures may impact voter turnout in the third phase of polls. In light of these conditions, the National Disaster Management Authority has advised people to wear light-colored, loose-fitting clothes, cover their heads with caps or cloths, and stay hydrated by carrying plenty of fluids and water.
Dr. Naresh Kumar, Senior Scientist at the India Meteorological Department, emphasised the importance of staying informed about daily forecasts and advisories issued by the IMD. The threshold for declaring a heatwave is met when the maximum temperature reaches at least 40 degrees Celsius in the plains, 37 degrees in coastal areas, and 30 degrees in hilly regions, with a departure from normal of at least 4.5 notches.
