The hot winds blowing from the west and scorching sun are forcing people to remain indoors during daytime. Those who are not bound to move outdoors for job or other reasons are coming out of their homes only in the evening in order to avoid the effects of rising mercury level in lalkuan. There is little respite from inconvenience to the public even after sunset due to frequent power cuts during the night. With the district administration not setting up outlets in public places to serve drinking water to the people, many can be seen searching for cool water to drink.
Routine public life has been affected by the heat which has been rising for about a week now. Bright sunlight appears at about 7 AM while by 10 AM it feels like afternoon due to the scorching sun. Hot winds, humidity and the scorching sun are causing problems to the locals, especially the children and elderly. The roads in town wear a deserted look in the afternoon due to the hot winds blowing. Though night time brings some relief, in many areas recurring power cuts ensure continued inconvenience for the public even after sunset.
Meteorologists have forecast that there will be little change in the weather in the next couple of days. However, they also point that increased heat during this period would have a positive impact on the monsoon. Increased atmospheric heat would result in a low pressure area that could in turn attract winds from the west which might result in strong windy conditions.
Meanwhile, the number of people visiting Government and private hospitals after being afflicted by heat related illness has increased in recent days. Doctors advise that when moving outdoors, people should cover their bodies properly with clothes. They should not move out directly into the heat or direct sunlight after remaining indoors in artificially cooled or air conditioned rooms. People should avoid going outdoors on an empty stomach and also drink water frequently. They should see a doctor without delay on experiencing fever or burning sensation in the body.
GP Pant University of Agriculture and Technology, weather department scientist Dr HS Kushwaha said that the hot conditions are likely to continue for about a week with no indications of rainfall in the region. The temperature could also rise above 42 degrees Celsius though some drizzling may also be experienced due to clouds gathering in mountainous areas, he added.