Prayagraj continued to endure scorching heat on Thursday, marking the second consecutive day as the second-hottest city in Uttar Pradesh. According to the Meteorological department, Prayagraj recorded a maximum temperature of 46.6 degrees Celsius, while Banda once again topped the state chart at 47.6 degrees Celsius. The minimum temperature in Prayagraj settled at 29.4 degrees Celsius, making the night humid and uncomfortable as well.
Temperature Rise Compared to Wednesday
Compared to Wednesday, when the city recorded a maximum temperature of 46.4 degrees Celsius and a minimum of 29 degrees Celsius, the mercury rose by 0.2 degrees Celsius during the day and 0.4 degrees Celsius at night. Temperatures continued to remain significantly above normal, intensifying heatwave conditions across the district.
Impact on Daily Life
From early morning, harsh sunlight and hot winds made commuting difficult, while roads and marketplaces wore a deserted look during afternoon hours. Hot winds sweeping through the city felt like air from a blower, leaving residents exhausted within minutes of stepping outdoors. Commuters faced additional trouble due to a deadlock between striking lawyers and resident doctors at SRN Hospital on the second consecutive day. Several roads connecting city west localities witnessed massive traffic congestion throughout the day because of protests and heavy vehicular pressure around the hospital area. Hundreds of commuters remained stranded in long traffic jams for hours under the scorching sun.
Increased Demand for Cool Beverages
The hot conditions also pushed up demand for cool beverages like shikanji and sugarcane juice at roadside stalls, while even coolers and fans failed to provide much relief. The India Meteorological Department (IMD) warned of no respite from the heatwave over the next few days. The IMD had already issued a red alert for Prayagraj and adjoining districts until May 23.
About the Author
Rajeev Mani has been working in TOI's Prayagraj bureau for the past two decades, handling beats from education to excise and taxation to aviation. He loves travelling, singing, and meeting people, especially academics. He has extensively covered two Ardh Kumbhs (2007 and 2019) and two Maha Kumbhs (2013 and 2025) along with different assembly and General Elections.
