Kanpur: Residents of Kanpur division are unlikely to get relief from the prevailing heatwave as the India Meteorological Department (IMD) has forecast continued bright sunshine, high humidity and soaring temperatures over the next few days.According to the weather forecast, conditions across the division are expected to remain predominantly clear, sunny and extremely hot. Maximum temperatures in most districts are likely to range between 39°C and 40°C, while minimum temperatures may remain between 29°C and 31°C. Owing to high atmospheric humidity, however, the ‘RealFeel’ temperature could reach as high as 44°C.The IMD has advised people to avoid prolonged exposure to direct sunlight between 11 am and 4 pm, when the UV index is expected to remain very high, ranging from 8 to 10. Residents have also been urged to stay hydrated and carry water or ORS while travelling outdoors to prevent heat-related illnesses.Kanpur Nagar recorded a marginal rise in temperature on Wednesday, with the maximum temperature touching 40°C compared to 39.4°C a day earlier. The minimum temperature also increased to 28.4°C.Weather conditions remained uncomfortable due to high humidity levels, with maximum relative humidity recorded at 62 per cent. Northwesterly winds blowing at speeds of 4.7 kmph to 9.1 kmph provided little respite from the oppressive heat.Weather expert Dr S Sunil Pandey of CSA University said rising atmospheric humidity is likely to push temperatures higher across the Kanpur division in the coming days, resulting in persistently muggy conditions.“There is virtually no chance of rainfall. As solar heating intensifies, temperatures are expected to rise further, increasing the severity of the heat,” he said.Dr Pandey warned that heatwave conditions are likely to continue for the next three to four days and advised residents to remain indoors during peak afternoon hours, stay in shaded areas whenever possible and maintain adequate hydration.He also noted that the emergence of El Niño could increase the likelihood of a weaker Indian monsoon and uneven rainfall distribution. Since a significant portion of India’s agriculture depends on monsoon rains, such conditions could adversely impact agricultural production and crop yields, he added.
