Dehydration, heat exhaustion cases rise in NCR as mercury touches 44°C

Noida: District administrations in Noida and Ghaziabad have issued a heatwave advisory, warning residents of severe “loo” conditions till May 22 as temperatures continue to soar across the region.

Day temperatures are hovering around 44°C, while night temperatures remain unusually high at nearly 35°C, offering little relief.

The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has predicted that the heatwave conditions are likely to persist till May 25.The advisory issued by the District Disaster Management Authority (DDMA) states that weather conditions will remain conducive for a heatwave in the coming days.

Humidity coupled with intense heat could trigger dehydration, cramps and heatstroke, particularly among vulnerable groups such as children, the elderly, pregnant women, labourers and those with pre-existing illnesses, officials said.Hospitals in both districts have reported a rise in OPD cases linked to dehydration, heat exhaustion and seasonal illnesses over the past few days. Doctors in govt and private hospitals said OPDs have witnessed a noticeable increase in patients complaining of dizziness, weakness, dehydration and stomach-related infections.

The administration cautioned residents against venturing outdoors during peak afternoon hours, especially between noon and 3 pm, when hot winds are expected to intensify. Authorities also warned of an “urban heat island” effect in densely populated areas of the city, where concrete structures trap heat and further elevate temperatures.“At least 200 patients have come to the district hospital who are affected by extreme heat.

The number is expected to increase with adverse situations,” said a senior doctor at the Noida district hospital.The advisory urged residents to wear loose cotton clothing, cover their heads while stepping out and drink water frequently. People have also been advised to consume fluids such as ORS, coconut water, buttermilk, lemon water and aam panna to prevent dehydration. It also advised against consuming alcohol, caffeinated beverages and stale food during the heatwave period.Residents were urged to avoid strenuous outdoor activity in the afternoon and keep homes cool using curtains and ventilation.NCRB data shows that of the 7,903 accidental deaths attributable to “forces of nature” in the country in 2024, 23.2% were due to “heat/sun stroke”. Uttar Pradesh recorded 352 heatstroke deaths in 2024.