Delhi-NCR residents were in for a scorching afternoon as the national capital recorded its highest-ever temperature at a blistering 52.3 degree Celsius. The temperature was just 4.4 degrees lower than the world record of 56.7 degrees Celsius, recorded in the US at the Furnace Creek Ranch, previously known as the Greenland Ranch. The IMD has attributed this extreme heat to hot winds from Rajasthan, with areas on the outskirts of Delhi being the first to experience their full force. The use of air conditioners has exacerbated the heat island effect, leading to an all-time high power demand of 8,302 megawatts in Delhi.
Scorching Heatwave Grips Delhi, Records Highest-Ever Temperature
Delhi-NCR has witnessed an unprecedented heatwave, with the national capital recording its highest-ever temperature of 52.3 degrees Celsius on July 5th, 2023. This searing heat is just 4.4 degrees lower than the world record of 56.7 degrees Celsius, recorded in the US at Furnace Creek Ranch.
Causes of the Extreme Heat
According to the India Meteorological Department (IMD), this extreme heat is primarily due to hot winds blowing from Rajasthan. These winds have been particularly strong in areas on the outskirts of Delhi, which have borne the brunt of the heatwave. Additionally, the use of air conditioners has exacerbated the urban heat island effect, leading to a record-breaking power demand of 8,302 megawatts in the city.
Background
Delhi has been experiencing a gradual rise in temperatures in recent years, attributed to climate change and urbanization. The city's population has grown rapidly, leading to increased traffic and construction, both of which contribute to heat emissions. Additionally, the loss of green spaces and the presence of large, heat-absorbing buildings have further intensified the urban heat island effect.
Health Impacts and Mitigation
The extreme heat has had severe health impacts on Delhi's residents. Heatstroke, dehydration, and respiratory problems have been reported in various parts of the city. The elderly, children, and those with pre-existing health conditions are particularly vulnerable to these effects.
The government and residents have implemented various mitigation measures to address the heatwave, including:
Top 5 FAQs
Q: What is the world record for the highest temperature ever recorded? A: The world record for the highest temperature ever recorded is 56.7 degrees Celsius (134 degrees Fahrenheit), measured at Furnace Creek Ranch in the United States in 1913.
Q: What causes heatwaves? A: Heatwaves are caused by a combination of factors, including prolonged high atmospheric pressure, low humidity, and little to no wind. These conditions trap heat near the Earth's surface, leading to a buildup of extreme temperatures.
Q: Why is Delhi particularly vulnerable to heatwaves? A: Delhi is vulnerable to heatwaves due to several factors, including its geographical location (in a semi-arid region), high population density, lack of green spaces, and the presence of large heat-absorbing buildings.
Q: What are the health risks associated with heatwaves? A: Heatwaves can lead to a range of health risks, including heatstroke, dehydration, respiratory problems, and even death.
Q: What measures can be taken to mitigate the effects of heatwaves? A: Mitigation measures for heatwaves include staying indoors during peak heat hours, drinking plenty of water, wearing loose and light-colored clothing, and using fans or air conditioners.
Just days before the festival of lights, Delhi-NCR was brought to a standstill as severe traffic congestion struck the region. The festive rush, combined with ongoing roadwork and market zones bustling with Diwali shoppers, resulted in major delays and gridlock across the city. In response, the Delhi Traffic Police issued a strong advisory and took several measures to handle the traffic overload and prioritize safety. As the weekend and Diwali shopping continue, commuters are reminded to plan their journeys carefully to avoid getting stuck in the chaos.
As festive celebrations pick up pace in the national capital, Delhi Traffic Police is urging people to plan their travel in advance due to widespread traffic disruptions. Ongoing road repairs and broken sewer lines have added to the traffic woes, prompting the police to cancel leaves and deploy personnel to handle the growing Diwali rush. Many major intersections have experienced bottlenecks, and motorists are advised to follow diversion routes and check live updates before stepping out.
Diwali, the festival of lights, celebrates good over evil and the victory of light over darkness. This year, Diwali falls on October 20, with Lakshmi Puja being the main ritual dedicated to Maa Lakshmi, the goddess of wealth. The Amavasya Tithi, which marks the new moon, is considered the most auspicious time for the Puja and falls between 3.44 pm on October 20 and 5.54 pm on October 21. Diwali is celebrated across India and in many countries with Indian-origin communities, with families coming together to light diyas, offer prayers, and prepare sweets and offerings for the goddess. Different cities have their own auspicious timings for the Puja, with Delhi's Pradosh Kaal being the most significant.
Union minister Nitin Gadkari faced accusations of conflict of interest from the ethanol blending policy, with allegations that his sons' company was benefiting financially. However, Gadkari has vehemently denied these claims, stating that the production of ethanol only accounted for less than 0.5% of his sons' company's supply. He adds that his efforts to promote alternative, cleaner fuels are to address the country's high fuel import costs and reduce pollution. The minister also criticizes the Congress' claims, calling them baseless and an attempt to discredit the government's policies.
A devoted fan of the Loch Ness Monster, Eoin O Faodhagain, has captured footage of a potential sighting on the Visit Inverness Loch Ness webcam. The video shows what appears to be a long, anaconda-like neck emerging from the water, which Mr O Faodhagain describes as being "thick as a man's thigh". This isn't the first time he has spotted something unusual on the webcam, as he claims a recent sighting is very similar to one he had earlier this year. He also shared pictures from a September sighting that showed two humps in the water.
The Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation has announced an ex-gratia payment of Rs 31,000 for its employees for Diwali. This applies to all eligible BMC officers, teachers, and staff of private primary and secondary schools, as well as shikshan sevaks and employees of teacher training institutes. In addition, community health volunteers will receive a special gift of Rs 14,000 and kindergarten teachers and helpers will receive Rs 5,000. Maharashtra's Chief Minister and Deputy Chief Ministers have also extended Diwali greetings to all BMC officers and employees.
A 15-year-old boy tragically died after being electrocuted at a parking area designated for Prime Minister Narendra Modi's public meeting in Kurnool district. The boy was carrying an iron pipe to use as a flagpole, which accidentally touched a high-tension power line, leading to his death. The incident occurred just before the PM's meeting and police have registered a case. This news was first reported by the auto-generated syndicate wire service and no changes have been made to the original report.
A private bus traveling from Jaisalmer to Jodhpur caught fire, resulting in the death of 19 people. The Chief Minister has expressed grief and ordered for assistance to be provided to the victims and injured. The cause of the fire is believed to be a short circuit. Helpline numbers have been released and the army has been deployed at the scene.
A devastating accident occurred on the Jaisalmer-Jodhpur Highway in Rajasthan when an AC sleeper bus caught fire. Witnesses recounted the horrifying scene of passengers jumping out of the moving bus to escape the flames. The bus, carrying 57 passengers, was turned to ashes and officials fear that the death toll may exceed 15. Relief efforts are ongoing, with ambulance services creating a green corridor to quickly transport the injured to advanced treatment facilities.
In the wake of recent floods, the Jain community in Mumbai came together to donate ₹1.38 crore to 141 gaushalas in Maharashtra. The donations, totaling ₹50,000 per gaushala, will be used for purchasing fodder and supplies for the cattle. The community also launched a new animal ambulance and organized a Jivdaya Mahotsav to promote compassion for all living beings. Prominent guests and donors, including Shaina N C and Girishbhai Shah, were in attendance at the event.