Nagpur: Severe heatwave conditions persisted across the Vidarbha region on Monday, with multiple cities recording temperatures above 44 degrees Celsius. According to the weather department, Akola, Amravati, and Wardha were among the hottest locations in Maharashtra, with no immediate relief in sight.
Record-Breaking Temperatures
Wardha recorded the highest maximum temperature at 46.5 degrees Celsius, followed closely by Amravati at 46.4 degrees Celsius and Akola at 46.3 degrees Celsius. Yavatmal reported 45.4 degrees Celsius, while Nagpur reached 44.4 degrees Celsius, nearly one degree above normal. Chandrapur and Gondia also remained under intense heat at 43.8 degrees Celsius each.
Impact on Daily Life
The prolonged heat disrupted daily life across the region, with labourers, delivery workers, street vendors, and commuters facing the brunt of exposure. Many residents struggled to cope with the scorching conditions, leading to increased health concerns.
NMC Activates Heat Action Plan 2026
Amid worsening conditions, the Nagpur Municipal Corporation (NMC) issued a public advisory, urging residents to take precautions. In view of the India Meteorological Department's forecast of temperatures touching 45 to 46 degrees Celsius in the coming days, the civic body activated its 'Heat Action Plan 2026' to curb heat-related illnesses.
NMC medical health officer Dr. Deepak Selokar stated that departments have been directed to coordinate closely with the health system, which remains on high alert. Between March 1 and May 17, over 3.28 lakh OPD visits and health checks were recorded at civic facilities.
Heat-Related Cases Reported
Epidemic officer Dr. Govardhan Navkhare reported that 76 heat-related cases — including heat rash, exhaustion, cramps, and syncope — have been recorded so far, with no heatstroke cases yet. Authorities remain vigilant as temperatures are expected to rise further.
Preparedness and Advisory
The NMC has set up 11 dedicated cold wards in major hospitals, equipped with medicines, IV fluids, ice packs, and ORS. More than 150 urban primary health and wellness centres are prepared to handle heat-related ailments.
Authorities advised residents to avoid going outdoors between noon and 4 pm, stay hydrated, and take special care of children, senior citizens, and pregnant women. The public is urged to follow these guidelines to prevent heat-related illnesses during the ongoing heatwave.
