Severe heatwave conditions are expected to persist over parts of Rajasthan, Punjab, Haryana, Chandigarh-Delhi, and West Uttar Pradesh for the next five days, according to the India Meteorological Department (IMD). The IMD has issued a 'red alert' for these regions, warning that maximum daytime temperatures could exceed 47 degrees Celsius in several districts.

"Temperatures are currently above normal across Northwest India, and we issued a 'red alert' for the region over the past few days," senior IMD scientist Naresh Kumar told ANI.

"For Rajasthan, we have issued a 'red alert' for the next five days, with maximum temperatures likely to rise above 45 degrees Celsius, potentially reaching 47 degrees Celsius," he said.

"In Punjab and Haryana, a temporary drop in temperatures due to a western disturbance will be followed by a gradual increase of two to three degrees, prompting a 'red alert.' Similarly, Uttar Pradesh faces a 'red alert' for the next five days, while northern Madhya Pradesh is under an 'orange alert'," Kumar added.

Unrelenting Heat Grips India

A blistering heatwave has gripped large parts of India for the fifth consecutive day, severely impacting health and daily activities.

According to the IMD, extreme heat will continue in the lower hills of Himachal Pradesh, which are typically cooler retreats from the intense heat of the plains.

On Tuesday, temperatures soared above 45 degrees Celsius in areas of Rajasthan, Haryana, Delhi, Chandigarh, and Uttar Pradesh, forcing many to stay indoors during the hottest parts of the day.

Gujarat also faced extreme heat combined with high humidity. Haryana's Sirsa recorded a scorching 47.8 degrees Celsius, the highest in the country on Tuesday.

In Delhi, temperatures dropped slightly but remained three to five degrees above normal for this time of year. The capital's peak power demand hit a record high of 7,717 MW on Tuesday afternoon due to increased use of air conditioners in homes and offices.

Southern States to Receive Heavy Rainfall

While the northern regions endure intense heat, relief is expected in the southern states. The IMD forecasts heavy to very heavy rainfall, up to 12 cm, in Tamil Nadu and Kerala over the next two to three days.