Northeast Desk, 26th May: Guwahati on May 25 experienced its highest temperature since 1960, reaching 40.1 degrees Celsius. This extreme weather prompted the India Meteorological Department (IMD) to issue its first heatwave warning for Assam in recent years, marking a severe departure of at least 8 degrees from normal temperatures.
As Guwahati endured its hottest day, the IMD predicted relief for the city, with temperatures expected to drop to as low as 30 degrees Celsius starting May 26. Despite the current heatwave, the city narrowly missed breaking its all-time high of 40.3 degrees Celsius, recorded on May 1, 1960.
Residents are advised to stay hydrated, take precautions against the heat, and avoid prolonged exposure to the sun during peak hours. The anticipated cooldown is likely to bring much-needed relief to the heat-stricken populace.
Concurrently, cyclonic pressure over the Bay of Bengal has intensified, with storm Remal expected to make landfall between the coasts of West Bengal and Bangladesh at midnight on May 26. The IMD predicts extremely heavy rainfall in the coastal districts of West Bengal and north Odisha on May 26 and 27, with parts of Northeast India, including Assam, likely to experience heavy rainfall on May 27 and 28 due to the cyclone’s impact.
The IMD’s forecasts highlight the urgent need for residents in affected areas to prepare for both the ongoing heatwave and the impending heavy rainfall.