Banda Claims the Hottest City Title Once More
Banda district in Uttar Pradesh recorded the highest temperature anywhere in the country today, with the mercury reaching 42.6 degrees Celsius. Prayagraj came in second, logging 42.5 degrees Celsius on the same day.
Not Long Ago, Banda Was the Hottest Place on the Planet
This is far from the first time Banda has attracted attention for its searing heat. In recent days, temperatures in the district surged to 48.2 degrees Celsius, a figure that briefly made it the hottest city not just in India but in the entire world. Alarmed by the relentless climb, the district magistrate of Banda formally wrote to the government requesting that scientists be dispatched to investigate the phenomenon.
A Six-Member Scientific Team Is Now on the Ground
Acting on the district magistrate's request, a team of six scientists has arrived in Banda to begin their probe. Their primary focus will be on assessing groundwater levels across the district and understanding how the declining water table is contributing to soaring temperatures. The team will also study local rivers and vegetation, and will separately examine the effect that large-scale tree felling in the region has had on the local climate.
A Brutal Heatwave Has UP in Its Grip
Across Uttar Pradesh, the heat is so punishing that residents are weighing whether a trip outside is genuinely necessary before stepping out the door. Those whose livelihoods take them outdoors into the sun are suffering the most. The meteorological department had on June 21 forecast that dry conditions would persist across UP.
According to the Meteorological Centre in Lucknow, western Uttar Pradesh will remain dry on June 22, while eastern parts of the state may experience heatwave conditions on the same day. Similar dry spells are projected for western UP on June 24 and 25, though eastern UP could receive some rainfall by June 25. Relief for both regions is expected by June 26, when thundershowers are likely across the state.
How to Protect Yourself From the Extreme Heat
- Stay indoors between 12 noon and 4 pm, the peak heat hours, unless going out is absolutely necessary. If you must step outside, shield your head with an umbrella, cap or a gamcha.
- Choose light-coloured, loose clothing over heavy or tight garments to keep your body cooler.
- Never walk barefoot on surfaces directly exposed to sunlight.
- Keep yourself well hydrated throughout the day. ORS solution, coconut water, lemon water, buttermilk, curd and electrolyte-based drinks are all good options.
- Include water-rich foods such as watermelon, cucumber and kakdi in your diet, and steer clear of tea, coffee, cold drinks and alcohol.
