Extreme Heat Alert Issued as Lok Sabha Elections Enter Crucial Phase

Indian voters will be facing heatwave conditions as they participate in the third phase of elections on May 7. States like West Bengal, Bihar, Karnataka, Kerala, Goa, and East Uttar Pradesh are expected to experience sweltering temperatures. The Election Commission has called for increased efforts to ensure the safety of voters, candidates, and polling station staff. The weather office has warned of potential sunburn and heatstroke, with temperatures soaring to alarming levels in certain areas.

In Maharashtra, temperatures crossed 40 degrees Celsius, reaching a high of 43.7 degrees Celsius in Solaur. Similarly, Odisha and West Bengal have been gripped by scorching heatwave conditions, disrupting daily life. The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued a heat wave alert in various districts of Kerala. Experts are concerned that the rising temperatures may impact voter turnout during the third phase of polls.

To mitigate the effects of the heatwave, the National Disaster Management Authority has advised people to wear light-colored, loose-fitting clothes, cover their heads, and stay hydrated. Dr. Naresh Kumar, a Senior Scientist at the India Meteorological Department, emphasized the importance of carrying plenty of fluids, keeping an eye on the daily forecast, and following advisories from the IMD. Additionally, the IMD has set specific thresholds for defining a heatwave based on maximum temperatures and departures from normal levels.