Varanasi: Intense heat gripped Varanasi on Sunday, with the city recording 44.2 degrees Celsius, five notches above normal.According to the India Meteorological Department, Varanasi (BHU) recorded the second-highest daytime temperature at 44.2 degree Celsius, followed by Sultanpur at 43.8 degrees Celsius. The minimum stood at 23.4.The IMD forecast shows both day and night temperatures rising over the next five days, leaving little respite for residents.The scorching heat left most city roads deserted, except those leading to Kashi Vishwanath Dham. The ghats and Ganga also wore a deserted look in the afternoon. According to experts, while early morning was relatively tolerable, the afternoon was harsh, making the outdoor temperature 1-2 degrees above due to concrete structures all around.The IMD has also issued a heatwave alert for UP, warning of a further rise in temperatures over the next few days.A heatwave is declared when the maximum temperature is 4.5 to 6.4 degrees Celsius above normal. The heatwave is also announced when the maximum temperature in a city is recorded at 45 degrees Celsius or above.Authorities have advised residents to avoid direct sun exposure during peak afternoon hours, stay hydrated and take necessary precautions as the state heads towards more intense summer conditions in the coming days.
