India

Heatwave Havoc in India: IMD Issues Red Alert as Delhi Sizzles at 46 Degrees

The IMD has issued a red alert for a severe heatwave in North India, impacting voter turnout and air travel. Learn more about the scorching temperatures and time zone peculiarities in India!

The scorching sun beats down on North India as the India Meteorological Department (IMD) issues a 'red alert' for a severe heatwave. Large areas, including Delhi, are experiencing extreme temperatures, with the capital recording a blistering 46 degrees Celsius. The oppressive heatwave is set to continue, posing a challenge for both residents and travelers. Amidst the sweltering conditions, heavy rain is forecasted for South India, providing a stark contrast in weather patterns across the country.

Delving into the quirky side of Indian timekeeping, the country operates on a single time zone despite the vast longitudinal stretch. The east witnesses sunrise nearly two hours earlier than the west, prompting curiosity about the historical decisions behind India's time zone. While North India battles the scorching heat, Thomas Cook India's Executive Chairman, Madhavan Menon, highlights the ongoing challenge of high airfares affecting leisure and business travelers.

With Delhi heading to the polls amidst the heatwave, the extreme weather threatens to impact voter turnout during the general elections. The relentless heatwave grips Northwest India, with cities like Najafgarh in Delhi recording record temperatures, signaling the severity of the conditions. As the IMD issues warnings and forecasts, the nation braces itself for the continued onslaught of the extreme weather.

On a fun note, did you know that the concept of a single time zone in India was introduced by the British in the 19th century to streamline railway schedules? Additionally, the variation in sunrise times adds to the cultural and geographical diversity of the country, making it a unique timekeeping phenomenon.