Menacing Monday scorches Lucknow at 42.3°C

Lucknow: With the mercury soaring to 42.3°C, the state capital sweltered under a relentless sun on Monday. Afternoon hours drained the streets of life as deserted roads and hushed markets bore witness to a city retreating indoors, seeking refuge from the blistering heat.Parks and public places witnessed sparse attendance during the daytime, while roadside juice and cold drink stalls saw increased footfall as residents sought relief from the heat. Health experts advised people to avoid prolonged exposure to direct sunlight, remain hydrated and take precautions against heat-related illnesses.According to the India Meteorological Department (IMD), clear skies, along with strong dust-raising winds, are likely to prevail over the city during the daytime for the next few days.The maximum and minimum temperatures are expected to hover around 42 degrees Celsius and 29 degrees Celsius respectively. The maximum relative humidity was recorded at 56%, while the minimum stood at 25%, contributing to dry and uncomfortable weather conditions.Mohammad Danish, a senior scientist at IMD, said that hot weather conditions, including warmer nights, are likely to persist across the region for the next few days.

“People should also remain alert to warmer nights, which may cause discomfort and uneasiness among residents,” he said.At 47.6°C, Banda again hottest in countryBanda remained the hottest place in Uttar Pradesh and jointly the hottest in the country on Monday as heatwave conditions continued across large parts of the state due to dry northwesterly winds and clear sky conditions prevailing across the plains.The district recorded a maximum temperature of 47.6 degrees Celsius, over four degrees above normal.

Brahmpuri in Maharashtra also registered 47.6 degrees Celsius, making the two locations the hottest in India.Jhansi was the second hottest city in UP on Monday, recording 46°C. Orai followed closely at 45.8°C, with Agra at 45.5°C and Prayagraj at 45.4°C. Most cities across the state saw temperatures 3-4°C above normal.IMD said heatwave conditions are likely to persist in some parts of the state on Tuesday.