Prayagraj: Relief was marginal in Sangam City as Tuesday’s maximum temperature eased just over a degree to 43.2°C, down from 44.4°C a day earlier. However, the minimum rose slightly to 24.8°C from 24.6°C.According to IMD, though the maximum temperature dipped to 43.2°C, it was still 2.6 notches above normal.Despite the minor dip, intense heat continues to grip the city. The sun blazes from 7 am and near-heatwave conditions set in after 2 pm.The impact was visible during peak afternoon hours as roads wore a deserted look with people staying indoors. Fruit vendors, however, report a surge in demand for summer staples like watermelon and muskmelon as residents try to stay hydrated.Schoolchildren remain among the worst affected. Outside all the schools, students were seen struggling under the harsh sun during dispersal hours. Many covered their heads with bags while waiting for transport, while others complained of headaches, dizziness and fatigue. Parents have raised concerns over dehydration and heat-related illnesses despite precautions like umbrellas, water bottles and light clothing.Many parents have started giving their wards glucose and other rehydration drinks to keep them hydrated in school. The worst affected are the students travelling in vans and e-rickshaws, who are facing intense heat while reaching their homes.Doctors have advised these students not to sit in air-conditioned rooms, consume cold water or take a bath immediately after reaching their homes. “Wait for at least 10 minutes before taking anything to relieve yourself from the heat that you witnessed while reaching back,” said Dr Santosh Kumar Singh of MLN Medical College.The India Meteorological Department has issued a warning of an intense heatwave over the next three days, with temperatures likely to touch 46°C.On April 29, 2022, Prayagraj recorded 46.8°C, the highest temperature since 2014. Experts have warned that similar conditions could return if the current trend continues. Afternoon hours are expected to remain particularly harsh, with hot winds persisting till evening.Meanwhile, the Basic Shiksha Adhikari Prayagraj is keeping a close watch on the situation and has directed schools to ensure that classes up to Class 8 conclude by 12:30 pm. Authorities are monitoring compliance and may take further steps, including revising school timings, if the heatwave intensifies further.
