Uttar Pradesh remains in the grip of intense heat and heatwave conditions. Bright sunshine was visible across the state from Monday morning, while slow wind speeds increased humidity levels and discomfort.
The Meteorological Department has issued an alert for thunderstorms, rainfall and lightning in 14 districts of Purvanchal today. At the same time, 53 districts are under heatwave alert, including 10 districts placed under red alert. A red alert means scorching sunshine and extremely hot winds are expected in these areas.
Nautapa begins today, heat expected to intensify further
Nautapa has also begun from today, marking the start of a nine-day period traditionally associated with extreme heat. Weather officials say conditions are likely to worsen during this period, with temperatures in most districts expected to remain above 45°C.
Banda becomes country’s second-hottest city
More than 50 cities in the state remained under heatwave conditions on Sunday. Banda emerged as the country’s second-hottest city, recording a maximum temperature of 46.8°C. Brahmapuri in Maharashtra’s Vidarbha region was the hottest city in the country at 47.2°C.
Other major temperatures recorded in UP included-
- Jhansi- 45.6°C
- Prayagraj- 45.6°C
- Jalaun- 45.6°C
- Agra- 45.4°C
- Hamirpur- 45.2°C
Green shades installed at traffic signals in Lucknow
In Lucknow, green shade covers were installed at traffic signals to provide relief to commuters from the harsh sunlight. Meanwhile, in Moradabad, a Provincial Guard (PRD) personnel managing traffic reportedly died, with heatstroke suspected to be the cause. In Muzaffarnagar, a moving car caught fire. A woman, children and the driver jumped out of the vehicle to save themselves.
See weather pictures-

People in Varansi were seen walking on the streets with umbrellas amid the heatwave on Sunday.

On Sunday, a traffic policeman was seen quenching his thirst amidst the scorching sun and heat in Prayagraj.
Meteorologist Atul Kumar Singh said temperatures in UP have remained extremely high over the past few days. According to him, intense heating has created a large difference between ground temperatures and upper atmospheric temperatures, resulting in conditions favourable for storms and rainfall.
He added that a trough line extending from Eastern UP towards Chhattisgarh is also active, increasing the chances of strong winds, lightning and light rainfall. However, he clarified that there is little possibility of a significant drop in temperatures and the state will continue to remain under the grip of heatwave conditions.

Weather forecast for the next five days
May 26- Bright sunshine is expected across the state, along with heatwave conditions. Dust storms may occur in Eastern UP.
May 27- Severe heat will continue across UP, with most districts likely to remain under heatwave conditions. Rain is possible in Eastern UP.
May 28- Some areas of Eastern UP may receive rainfall. Isolated showers are also possible in parts of Western UP.
May 29- Light rainfall is likely across the state. Temperatures may decline slightly, although humidity levels will remain high.
May 30- Weather fluctuations will continue. Drizzle and strong winds are expected, but there will be no major relief from the heat.



