Varanasi: After remaining the hottest city in Uttar Pradesh for two consecutive days, with the mercury touching a scorching 44°C, there was a slight respite as the temperature dipped to 42.4°C on Tuesday. However, the relief was tempered by a rise in the night temperature, which climbed from 24.5°C to 25.2°C.According to IMD, though the mercury came down to 42.4°C, it was still 2.7 units above normal.On Monday, the city scorched at 44 degrees Celsius for the second day, retaining its place as UP’s second hottest and blazing 4.8 notches above normal. The night offered little respite, with the mercury settling at 24.5 degrees — still 2.1 degrees above normalThe sun’s rays are turning harsh within barely two hours of sunrise, making conditions increasingly oppressive. In response to the intensifying heat, the district administration on Monday night decided to shorten school hours for students up to Class 8. The Basic Education Officer has directed that classes for these students conclude by 11:30 am.The Varanasi Municipal Corporation has also stepped in, placing water coolers and pyaau at 39 points for passers-by.The prevailing heat has also affected normal life, with roads and markets deserted during afternoons and people stepping out only for essential work
