Heatwave alert in Agra till April 25; admin issues safety advisory

Agra: A heat wave alert with precautions has been issued by Agra district administration as the India Meteorological Department has forecast a spell of intense heat till April 25.DM Manish Bansal said the alert was based on inputs from the Ministry of Earth Sciences and the state meteorological centre in Lucknow, which indicated a likelihood of heatwave conditions across several districts, including Agra, during the period.A heatwave is characterised by abnormally high temperatures above the seasonal average and can have adverse health impacts, particularly when coupled with high humidity. “Such conditions may lead to dehydration, cramps and, in severe cases, even fatalities. Urban areas may also experience the ‘urban heat island’ effect, further aggravating the situation,” Bansal said.Vulnerable groups such as the elderly, children, pregnant women, labourers and those with existing illnesses are at higher risk during extreme heat conditions.The district disaster management authority has advised residents to avoid stepping out in direct sunlight, especially between 12 pm and 3 pm, wear light-coloured loose cotton clothes, and cover their heads with caps, cloth or umbrellas.People have also been urged to stay hydrated by drinking water at regular intervals and consuming fluids such as ORS, coconut water, buttermilk and lemon water. Authorities have asked residents to stay updated on weather conditions through radio, television and newspapers, and to seek medical attention in case of dizziness or illness.

Residents are advised to keep their houses cool by using curtains or shutters during the day and ensure proper ventilation at night. People have been cautioned against leaving children or pets unattended in parked vehicles, avoiding strenuous activities during peak heat hours, and refraining from consuming alcohol, caffeinated or carbonated drinks, which can lead to dehydration.People are advised to avoid high-protein and stale food, and minimise cooking time during peak daytime heat hours to keep indoor temperatures lower.