Jamshedpur experienced its hottest day of the season on Tuesday as the mercury soared to a scorching 45.5 degrees Celsius. Meanwhile, Baharagora sweated it out at a staggering 47.1 degrees Celsius, marking one of the highest temperatures in the region.
According to reports, the Chottanagpur plateau region is currently gripped by severe heat wave conditions, with nearby suburbs also experiencing sweltering temperatures. The heat wave alert, initially issued on Monday, has been extended across the state for another 48 hours, underscoring the severity of the situation.
Officials attribute the blistering conditions to prevailing westerly to northwesterly winds at lower levels over the region. They warn that heat wave conditions are expected to persist in parts of the Chottanagpur region over the next two days.
April has proven to be exceptionally hot in Jamshedpur this season, with forecasts indicating clear skies and temperatures exceeding 43 degrees Celsius for the next two days. An official from the Meteorological Office in Sonari remarked on the unbearable heat, predicting even hotter temperatures for May.
The scorching summer has not only made daily life difficult but has also led to a rise in health issues among residents. Hospitals and nursing homes are witnessing a surge in admissions due to ailments such as dehydration, gastroenteritis, jaundice, and viral fever.
Interestingly, historical data reveals that Jamshedpur holds records for extreme temperatures. On June 11, 1942, the city recorded its highest maximum temperature of 47.2 degrees Celsius. Additionally, in May 2013, temperatures soared to 45 degrees Celsius, marking one of the hottest days in Jamshedpur's history.