Residents of Bhopal and other major parts of Madhya Pradesh are facing a relentless heatwave as temperatures hover above 41 degrees Celsius. This scorching heat has been attributed to the reduction of moisture caused by cyclone Biparjoy. Many places in the state are experiencing an increase in night temperatures, with Malajhkhand being hit particularly hard. Balaghat and Ratlam are also likely to experience the heatwave within the next 24 hours. Day temperatures in Khajuraho, Nowgong, and Damoh are hovering above 44 degrees Celsius.
To bring relief, a yellow alert has been issued for rain and thundershowers in Bhopal, Narmadapuram and Rewa divisions, as well as districts such as Dhar, Indore, Khandwa, Khargone, Barwani, Burhanpur, Ujjain, Chhindwara, Sagar, and Seoni. The meteorological department has reported a western disturbance over Afghanistan and adjoining areas, while a cyclonic circulation is over southeast Uttar Pradesh.
However, there is a considerable delay in the desired intensity and spread of rainfall. At present, the visible manifestation of the monsoon surge is limited. Weather systems in the Bay of Bengal are considered the main drivers of the monsoon, while any monsoon depressions and storms over the Arabian Sea may spoil it more.
Light rains have occurred in one or two places over southeast Madhya Pradesh and Chhattisgarh. But, the long-delayed monsoon has caused distress among the farmers in the state, with many of them being forced to abandon crops due to the lack of water.
As the heatwave continues, residents are advised to take necessary precautions and remain hydrated. Despite the yellow alert for rain, it is crucial to remember that the intensity and spread of rainfall may not be enough to combat the heatwave.
