India: Heatwave conditions forecast to persist over northwestern and eastern regions through at least June 22 /update 4

Heatwave conditions will likely persist across parts of northwestern and eastern India through June 22. High temperatures have been ongoing in the region since mid-May, with maximum temperatures of around 44-46 C (111-115 F) recorded across much of the region June 17-18, reaching as high as 47.6 C (117.6 F) in parts of eastern Uttar Pradesh State. Reports indicate that heatwaves across India March-May have killed dozens of people and made tens of thousands ill. As of June 18, the India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued a press release stating that the high temperatures will start to abate in parts of the region over the coming days; however, heatwave and severe heatwave conditions are likely to linger in some areas.

The IMD has issued the following warnings across the affected area June 18-22:

• Red heatwave warnings (the highest level on a three-tier scale): Uttar Pradesh June 18-20 and Bihar, Chandigarh, Delhi, Haryana, Punjab, and Uttarakhand June 18.

• Orange heatwave warnings: Madhya Pradesh June 18-19, Himachal Pradesh and Jharkhand June 18, Bihar, Chandigarh, Delhi, Haryana, Punjab, and Uttarakhand June 19, western Uttar Pradesh June 21-22, and eastern Uttar Pradesh June 21.

• Yellow heatwave/hot and humid warnings: Odisha June 18-20, Rajasthan June 18-19, coastal Andhra Pradesh, Jammu and Kashmir, Ladakh, and Gangetic West Bengal June 18, Himachal Pradesh and Jharkhand June 19, Bihar June 20.

Authorities will likely amend, update, or rescind advisories as weather conditions change over the coming days.

The extended period of oppressive heat and dry conditions may produce ideal circumstances for wildfire growth throughout the region. Heatwaves pose a threat to vulnerable groups - such as the elderly, children, pregnant women, and those with respiratory illnesses - due to the increased possibility of heat stroke or heat exhaustion. Relatively healthy individuals, especially those working outdoors or using mass transit, may also face health risks during significant heatwaves. The lack of air conditioning and cramped vehicles, particularly during rush hour, may lead to dehydration and other health issues in some passengers.

Very high temperatures may warp rail tracks and force passenger and freight trains to operate at reduced speeds. Road surface damage is also possible, and overheated vehicles may worsen traffic problems in urban areas where congestion is already a problem. Commercial trucking disruptions might occur as very high temperatures put more stress on vehicles, making tire blowouts more common. Major flight disruptions are unlikely at regional airports, but general aviation disruptions are possible, and some airfreight carriers could reduce cargo loads. High temperatures could lead to an increased demand for electricity, which might trigger localized brownouts or blackouts, exacerbating hazardous conditions when air conditioning is no longer possible.