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India Heatwave Alert: From Delhi to Uttar Pradesh, Rajasthan, Madhya Pradesh, Haryana, Punjab and Bihar, heat has become the biggest problem for the people at this time. Even before the end of May, the temperature in many cities has crossed 45 degrees Celsius. Now the Meteorological Department has warned that 'Nautapa', which started from May 25, may prove to be more dangerous this time.

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According to meteorologists, North India will witness extreme heat from May 25 to June 2. During this period, the temperature in many states can reach 45 to 48 degrees Celsius. Strong sunlight during the day and humid heat at night can further increase people's problems.

What is Nautapa?

In Indian tradition, Nautapa is the time when the Sun enters the Rohini Nakshatra. This period lasts for nine consecutive days. It is believed that the heat of the sun is felt the most during this time. However, there are scientific reasons behind this also. The date of Nautapa varies every year, but it usually falls between the last week of May and early June. Meteorologists consider this to be the most difficult phase of summer.

Why does the heat increase?

• Direct rays of the sun cause: According to scientists, the Earth is tilted by about 23.5 degrees. The Sun reaches close to the Tropic of Cancer in late May and early June. Because of this, the sun's rays fall directly on the ground in the plains of North India.

During this time the days become longer. The sun rises early in the morning and remains bright till late evening. The continuous heat for several hours heats the ground completely and makes it like a furnace.

Heat wave and dry land increase the danger

As the heat increases, the moisture in the ground starts depleting rapidly. Dry soil heats up very quickly and spreads hot winds into the atmosphere. During this time, the westerly winds coming from the desert areas of Rajasthan start scorching North India. Meteorologists say that at this time such pressure is created in the upper atmosphere which reduces the possibility of cloud formation. This is the reason why there is almost no rain during Nautapa and the heat keeps increasing continuously.

Along with heat, humidity will also bother you

During Nautapa, not only the temperature increases, but humidity also worsens the condition of people. Actually, preparations for the south-west monsoon begin at this time. Moist winds coming from Bay of Bengal and Arabian Sea start reaching North India. But due to lack of rain, humidity in the air increases and sweat does not dry. For this reason people feel much hotter than the actual temperature. According to experts, if the temperature is 45 degrees and humidity is more than 60 percent, then the body may feel heat of 50 to 55 degrees.

Record breaking temperatures in many cities

According to the Meteorological Department, this time even before the onset of Nautapa, heat has broken records in many cities.

• The temperature in Banda has crossed 48 degrees Celsius.
• In Delhi also the mercury was recorded near 47 degrees.
• In many parts of North India, the night temperature also remains between 30 to 35 degrees.

Risk of heat stroke will increase

According to doctors, problems like heat stroke, dehydration, dizziness and weakness increase rapidly during Nautapa. Especially children, the elderly and those who are already ill are most at risk. Health experts say that staying in strong sunlight for a long time can cause the body temperature to reach dangerous levels, which also increases the risk of life.

When will we get relief after Nautapa?

According to meteorologists, after the end of Nautapa, the south-west monsoon hits Kerala and then slowly progresses across the country. With the first rains of monsoon, the temperature starts falling and people start getting relief from the heat.

Advisory issued for people

In view of the scorching heat, the health department and administration of many states have advised people to take precautions.

1. Avoid exposure to sunlight between 12 noon to 4 pm
2. drink as much water as possible
3. wear light and cotton clothes
4. cover your head when going out
5. Take special care of children and elderly

The Meteorological Department says that the effect of heat may increase further in the coming days. In such a situation, people need to be alert and follow health related advice.