Nagpur: Heat smashed a 30-year-old record in Wardha, while Amravati emerged as the hottest city in Maharashtra as the Vidarbha region continued to reel under a severe heatwave for the second consecutive day on Monday. At 46.6°C, Amravati was also the second hottest place in the country, after Banda in Uttar Pradesh where the mercury touched 47.6°C. At 46.5° C, Wardha was at the third place. The previous highest maximum temperature for Wardha was 46.4°C, recorded on April 30, 1996.As per India Meteorological Department (IMD) data, Akola, Yavatmal and Chandrapur also recorded maximum temperatures of 45°C and above, making them among the top 11 hottest places in India. Akola sizzled at 46.3°C, while 45.2°C each at Chandrapur and Yavatmal. With 45°C, Nagpur too remained in the grip of intense heat.Buldhana, Bramhapuri and Gadchiroli also reported temperatures above 43°C.The situation was alarming on Sunday as Vidarbha experienced record April heat. Akola was the hottest place in the country at 46.9°C. Amravati (46.8°C), Wardha (46.4°C) and Yavatmal (46.0°C) were close behind, while Nagpur touched its highest of the season 45.4°C. Several cities from the region also figured among the world’s top 10 hottest locations, highlighting the severity of the heatwave.In comparison, these districts registered a slight dip in temperature on Monday. Partial cloud cover, along with light rainfall at isolated pockets, helped bring relief from the sweltering heat.IMC data show temperatures across Vidarbha continue to remain well above normal, with departures ranging from 2.5°C to over 4°C in multiple districts. Night temperatures have offered little relief, remaining unusually high. Chandrapur recorded a minimum of 29.6°C, Yavatmal 30°C and Wardha 27.8°C, contributing to persistent discomfort.IMD has warned of heatwave conditions in Amravati and Akola for Tuesday as well. Nagpur, Wardha, Yavatmal, Chandrapur and Gadchiroli are likely to receive thundershowers at isolated places on Tuesday. Rain and thunderstorm are expected across Vidarbha on April 29 and 30.Citizens have been advised to avoid prolonged sun exposure, stay hydrated and take precautions to prevent health risks.
